Why Did He Even Go? TV Network Names World Cup's Biggest Disappointments, Featuring Star Players

The World Cup delivered a plethora of exceptional individual performances. Fans were captivated by Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and even Vozinha. But according to the aforementioned television network, who were among the tournament's biggest disappointments?

In goal for the worst XI was Fernando Muslera, a key reason for Uruguay's early exit. His errors significantly contributed to the South American side failing to advance from a group that also featured Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde.

The defensive quartet consists of Joshua Kimmich, Virgil van Dijk, Marc Guehi, and Nico O'Reilly. Regarding the German international, ESPN highlighted that coach Julian Nagelsmann deployed him at right-back, despite his long-standing role in central midfield. In this unfamiliar position, he reportedly failed to impress.

For Virgil van Dijk, it was emphasized that as captain and defensive leader, he must shoulder some responsibility for the five goals conceded by the Netherlands in four matches. As for the English duo Guehi and O'Reilly, the American network noted that both fell short of the performance levels fans are accustomed to seeing from them at club level.

In midfield, Federico Valverde and Scott McTominay were named. Both were expected to be leaders for their national teams, but according to ESPN, they failed to deliver. Their underwhelming performances also contributed to Uruguay and Scotland bowing out of the tournament after the group stage.

Ahead of them are Christian Pulisic, Bruno Fernandes, and Florian Wirtz. The American sustained an injury in the opening group stage match and couldn't regain his expected form upon returning. Wirtz was supposed to be the German team's primary playmaker. Although he registered three assists, his overall performance fell short of expectations.

"The midfielder played brilliantly for Manchester United last season, but he never managed to translate his excellent club form into performances for the national team. Perhaps it's because Cristiano Ronaldo is central to everything Portugal does, or rather doesn't do, but Fernandes had a poor World Cup," ESPN stated regarding the Portuguese international.

Finally, Neymar appeared in attack, which, according to the network, was not a major surprise. The Brazilian arrived at the championship injured, played less than 45 minutes, and even then, didn't significantly help his team. It's worth noting that the coach chose him over players like Joao Pedro, who had an excellent season.

"Why did he even go to the World Cup?" ESPN concluded its assessment of the iconic Brazilian's tournament participation.