2026 World Cup: FIFA Reveals Top Four Young Player Award Contenders -

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup entering the quarter-final stage, FIFA has identified four outstanding young talents who are leading the race for the tournament’s Young Player Award following their impressive performances so far.

The players shortlisted are Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, France’s Désiré Doué, England’s Nico O’Reilly and Spain’s Lamine Yamal. Each has played a significant role in helping their respective countries secure places in the last eight.

Bouaddi has been a driving force in Morocco’s midfield throughout the tournament. The Lille youngster produced another composed display in the Atlas Lions’ Round of 16 victory over co-hosts Canada and is expected to be influential again when Morocco face France in the quarter-finals.

France forward Désiré Doué has also impressed on football’s biggest stage. The 21-year-old has started three of France’s five matches, scoring once and winning the decisive penalty that was converted by Kylian Mbappé in the Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.

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England defender Nico O’Reilly has become one of manager Thomas Tuchel’s trusted players during the competition. The Manchester City left-back has started four of England’s five matches, standing out for his defensive solidity and accurate passing. He also came close to scoring against Mexico after striking the woodwork.

Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has continued to shine after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered before the tournament. The 18-year-old scored his first World Cup goal against Austria before completing the full 90 minutes in Spain’s victory over Portugal, helping his side book a quarter-final clash with Belgium.

The FIFA Young Player Award is presented to the best-performing player born on or after January 1, 2005. With the tournament now approaching its decisive phase, all four contenders will be eager to strengthen their claims for the prestigious honour while leading their nations in pursuit of World Cup glory.