Neymar, Fernandes, and Valverde Among ESPN's 2026 World Cup Disappointments

Bruno Fernandes, Neymar, and Federico Valverde have been named in ESPN's 'Team of Disappointments' for the 2026 World Cup.

Brazilian veteran Neymar failed to guide the five-time world champions past the Round of 16 in the North American tournament, as the Seleção suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway. Uruguayan midfielder Valverde also performed below expectations, with his South American squad exiting the competition in the group stage. Bruno Fernandes, meanwhile, made little significant impact for Portugal, who were eliminated by Spain in the Round of 16. Other notable disappointments in the 2026 World Cup include German international Florian Wirtz and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk. English players Marc Guéhi and Nico O'Reilly also failed to make a substantial contribution to the Three Lions' campaign, which saw them finish third in the World Cup.

ESPN's World Cup of Disappointments XI (North America):

Goalkeeper: Fernando Muslera (Uruguay)

Defenders: Nico O'Reilly (England), Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands), Marc Guéhi (England), Joshua Kimmich (Germany)

Midfielders: Scott McTominay (Scotland), Federico Valverde (Uruguay), Christian Pulisic (USA), Bruno Fernandes (Portugal), Florian Wirtz (Germany)

Forward: Neymar (Brazil)