The World Cup is not only an opportunity for established global stars like Messi and Ronaldo to show the world what they can do, it is also a time where lesser known players can make a name for themselves on the greatest stage. The World Cup 2014 was the tournament when James Rodriguez of Colombia emerged as the latest new footballing talent. Winning the Golden Boot and having an outstanding run of games, he was soon subject to a big money bid from Real Madrid.
There will be plenty of footballers going into this World Cup hoping that they can do something similar. They may not be virtual unknowns but there will be a number of players looking to take their game to the next level.
Here are some of the players that could set the World Cup alight and put Messi and Ronaldo in the shade for once:
Sadio Mane – Liverpool’s lightning quick player has had two outstanding seasons with the Premier League club but Mo Salah has taken all of the plaudits this year. Mane will be lining up for Senegal, where he is likely to be the star of the show. Interestingly, he will probably be playing against Rodriguez in the final group game against Colombia. Mane was phenomenal in the Champions League and he looks like he could be ready to follow that up with a memorable World Cup.
Sergej Milinkovic-Savic – Currently playing for Lazio, the Serbian midfielder has been linked with numerous clubs as his performances have been catching the eye. A few good performances in this year’s World Cup could be enough to convince some of the top teams that he will be a good addition. There will be plenty of people watching the Serbia vs. Brazil game in Group E, so that could be his big chance to shine.
Marco Asensio – In Spain, Asensio is already ear-marked for stardom but the young midfielder has not gained much attention outside of his home nation. The shock change in managers may mean that there is a good chance for some of the less established stars, as the new manager looks to the future. He has struggled to break into the Real Madrid team but a move to the Premier League could be on the cards where he can show everyone what he is capable of.
Mbappe – France’s Mbappe is the young sensation that became the most expensive teenager ever. He has had a great start at PSG but many sceptics believe that the quality of football in the French league is not of the highest standard. So to prove himself without any doubt, Mbappe will be looking to have an outstanding World Cup in Russia.
