2026 World Cup best players and defenders poll results released

A fan poll for the 2026 FIFA World Cup identified the top defenders, with Norway’s Ajer leading at 16.9% followed by Argentina’s Lisandro Martínez (13.9%) and Spain’s Cubarsi (9.2%). Other notable defenders in the ranking included Croatia’s Gvardiol, France’s Saliba and Upamecano, and the Netherlands’ Van Dijk.

Separately, the New York Times sports column published a list of the ten best players after the semifinals. Lionel Messi (Argentina) retained the top spot, with Kylian Mbappé (France) second. Spain’s Rodri moved up 15 places, while England’s Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane each fell a position. Norway’s Erling Haaland dropped a spot, and Brazil’s Vinícius Jr and Bruno Guimarães appeared at 14th and 29th respectively. The rankings also highlighted performances from Spain’s Aymeric Laporte, Michael Olise (France), and other emerging talents.