Ikhtisar Athletic 220 FC

Luka Modric could be considered unique, given all that he has achieved, but Ivan Perisic has told GOAL that Croatia are capable of producing another Ballon d’Or winner in the future. The most decorated performer to emerge from that part of the world collected a prestigious Golden Ball in 2018. More “great talent” continues to drop off the production line, leaving hopes high when it comes to creating another member of the global elite.

The World Cup is now less than a week away, with teams currently making their final preparations for the tournament in North America. The stage is set for a whole host of players to make themselves national heroes, including some of the most exciting youngsters in the game today.

There's just one week to go until the biggest show on earth gets underway, with the 2026 World Cup kicking off on June 11. If you haven't already caught a serious case of World Cup fever, what better way to get in the mood than by checking out the very best kits that will be on show in North America this summer.

Former England striker Alan Shearer has urged manager Thomas Tuchel to make a bold decision by starting Morgan Rogers over Jude Bellingham in the coveted number 10 role. Backed by stunning club statistics and a European trophy, the Aston Villa star's exceptional form and superior match fitness could give him the definitive edge heading into the World Cup.