The Serie A has struggled a little to keep up with Europe’s other major leagues in terms of perception in recent seasons. A number of Italian teams have failed to make an impression in the Champions League with Antonio Conte notoriously struggling in Europe, seeing his Napoli side fail to make it far in the tournament despite domestic strength. The 2026 World Cup offers some of the team’s finest a chance to prove themselves on a bigger stage, particularly those that have gone under the radar since joining the team.
The Italian National Team’s failure to qualify won’t mean the Azzurri faithful won’t have much reason to watch as their top stars are spread across world football.
Napoli Faithful can Look to 4 Players at the 2026 World Cup
Scott McTominay
Once an unwanted man in Manchester United, Scott McTominay has seen his reputation skyrocket since moving to the Italian side. His knack for popping up with big goals from midfield was on full display as he helped them win the Serie A title in his debut campaign.
He is equally important for the Scottish national team. He uses all of his top level experience and time in the Premier League to dictate the play and provide defensive stability. He has 69 caps for his nation, bagging 14 goals in that time, including a crucial winner in qualifying and an early tone setter in their final qualifier against Denmark that saw the Scots qualify through the group phase.
Billy Gilmour
As part of the double pivot, the former Chelsea man Billy Gilmour has been a useful part of the Scottish teams tactical setup. Coming from Cobham, his technical abilities are assured and have been refined during his time in Serie A. Gilmour brings a tempo dictation and ability to play from deep to the team that few others can match. The World Cup could be a big breakout tournament for him as the world’s audience finally watches one of the more naturally talented midfielders in Europe.
The 24-year-old already has 45 caps for his country and is set to become one of the core parts of the team for his remaining career. He will no doubt be remembered as one of their finest midfielders and players of the current generation.
Kevin De Bruyne
One of the last remaining players from Belgium’s golden generation has experienced a lot of disappointment at international level. The European nation has put out incredible talents like Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois, Jan Vertonghan, and many more over the past 10 years or so, but they’ve never been able to put things together and claim glory.
De Bruyne at club level was a leading part of the Manchester City dynasty and knows his career is winding down. Having missed some time this campaign with injury he will be well rested to provide some veteran leadership and world class playmaking to the national team for what is likely one of his last ever World Cup campaigns. Even Asian handicap betting sites couldn’t predict for certain if he’ll announce an international retirement or attempt to battle through for the next EUROS.
An elite talent like this always looks at a major international tournament as a chance to make their mark, the Belgian knowing that he doesn’t have many left in him is sure to motivate him further to get his nation as close to the trophy as possible.
Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku has been dealing with injuries for the majority of the current term but that could allow him time to rest and unleash his best form at the World Cup. His physicality, goalscoring exploits, and veteran knowhow should enable him to bully even the finest defenders at this level, he will be a big part of firing his country through the group stage and will have to put in some smart performances if they’re to get close to the final.
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