Goalkeeper: Vozinha, 40
Few late bloomers have made as significant an impression on World Cup history as Vozinha, who first thwarted Spain’s attackers and later limited Lionel Messi to just one goal during Cape Verde’s knockout run. After parting ways with Chaves at the conclusion of the previous season, Vozinha has previously played in Cyprus, Slovakia, and Moldova. With an impressive 27.5 million followers on Instagram, he offers both marketing potential and the ability to perform in high-stakes matches.
Right-back: Takehiro Tomiyasu, 27
Arsenal supporters have yet to witness the full potential of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, a player highly regarded by manager Mikel Arteta. After two years marred by injuries, he received a late call-up to Japan’s squad, offering him an opportunity to showcase his skills once more. Versatile and capable of playing in multiple defensive positions, Tomiyasu was released by Ajax and played a full match during Japan’s last-32 defeat to Brazil, with hopes he has overcome his knee issues.
Centre-back: John Stones, 32
England’s legendary centre-back Bobby Moore nearly entered the 1966 World Cup without a club contract, which would have disqualified him. In contrast, John Stones, whose tenure at Manchester City has concluded, faces no such restrictions. With 92 international caps, he demonstrated exemplary defensive leadership in England’s match at the Azteca Stadium after coming on as a substitute. It is likely that a Premier League team will seek his services after a decade of success at City, as he still has much to contribute.
Centre-back: Chancel Mbemba, 31
Chancel Mbemba, previously known for donning a tuxedo before matches as a Newcastle player, recently concluded a one-year contract with Lille. The captain of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mbemba showcased his abilities as a centre-back and defensive organizer during his international appearances.
Left-back: David Alaba, 34
For years, David Alaba has been a standout player for Austria, excelling at full-back, centre-back, and even midfield. However, he will not partake in the upcoming Real Madrid transformation under José Mourinho. As a four-time Champions League winner, Alaba possesses invaluable experience, although injuries have limited his impact at Madrid. He has expressed a desire to “stay at the highest possible level” with rumors of a Serie A move circulating.
Midfielder: Luka Modric, 40
Luka Modric bid farewell to the World Cup when Croatia faced defeat against Portugal in the last 32, leaving North America without witnessing the best of a player who has graced the international stage since 2006. While a contract extension at Milan is yet to be signed, it is reportedly a priority for the new coach, Ruben Amorim.
Midfielder: Franck Kessié, 29
Having gained substantial experience during three seasons with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, Côte d’Ivoire captain Franck Kessié made a significant impact until his team faced elimination after reaching the knockout stage for the first time. He has emerged as a target for several Serie A clubs, including Roma, Juventus, and Atalanta, where he initially played European football.
Midfielder: Leon Goretzka, 31
After leaving Bayern Munich, where he had been a key player since 2018, Leon Goretzka now seeks new opportunities. Selected by his former coach Julian Nagelsmann, he hopes that his status as a free agent has not been diminished by Germany’s latest World Cup disappointment. Goretzka brings an all-action style to his next club, although it is wise to note that Bayern seldom allows top talent to leave without just cause.
Right-side forward: James Rodríguez, 34
The breakout star of the 2014 World Cup, James Rodríguez was released by Minnesota United after yet another brief stint in his unpredictable career, which has not reached the heights anticipated when he led Colombia to the quarter-finals twelve years ago. Like fellow 34-year-old Neymar, he has struggled to bridge the gap to the Messi-Ronaldo era, but his performances in 2026 have shown that he still possesses significant untapped potential.
Centre-forward: Bamba Dieng, 26
The ongoing World Cup has highlighted the challenges many teams face in finding reliable centre-forwards, a situation mirrored in the free agency market. Bamba Dieng had a limited role for Senegal, coming off the bench against France, as the more sought-after Nicolas Jackson held the starting position. However, he has been linked with several Championship clubs, including Portsmouth and Derby.
Left-side forward: Mohamed Salah, 34
Arguably the biggest name on this list, Mohamed Salah’s future is shrouded in uncertainty. While there were fleeting rumors of a return to Liverpool following the departure of Arne Slot, such a move seemed improbable. Even more outrageous was speculation on Egyptian television suggesting he might join Everton, which David Moyes labeled as “impossible.” Salah has chosen to focus on leading his country to the last 16, with Saudi Arabia appearing to be the most likely next destination for him.
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