Ronaldo, Neymar Lead Planet Football’s World Cup 2026 Flop XI

The 2026 FIFA World Cup may have produced unforgettable moments, emerging stars and thrilling contests, but it also left several high-profile players falling well short of expectations.

Football publication Planet Football has unveiled its World Cup 2026 Flop XI, naming a host of established stars whose performances failed to match their reputations during the tournament.

Uruguay veteran Fernando Muslera was selected as the team’s goalkeeper after a costly mistake contributed to his country’s elimination against Spain.

The experienced shot-stopper endured a difficult outing, with reports also suggesting he requested to be substituted at half-time after the decisive error.

Germany captain Joshua Kimmich was named at right-back following another disappointing major tournament for the four-time world champions.

While not solely responsible for Germany’s early exit, the skipper came under scrutiny as the team’s struggles continued on the international stage.

Kalidou Koulibaly and Victor Lindelöf were chosen as the centre-back pairing after underwhelming campaigns for Senegal and Sweden respectively.

Koulibaly attracted criticism after Senegal surrendered a two-goal lead against Belgium before suffering elimination, while his display against Norway also came under fire.

Lindelöf likewise failed to provide the defensive stability expected from one of Sweden’s most experienced internationals.

Qatar defender Homam Al-Amin completed the back four after a difficult tournament, highlighted by his dismissal against Canada in a match in which he failed to register a tackle, clearance or block before being sent off.

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes, who arrived at the World Cup on the back of an outstanding domestic season, was included after struggling to influence matches despite high expectations. He finished the tournament with just one assist.

Scotland’s Scott McTominay also featured in midfield after failing to replicate the form that helped his nation qualify for the tournament, while Uruguay captain Federico Valverde was criticised for being unable to inspire his side as they exited following a series of disappointing performances.

Brazil forward Neymar was selected on the right wing after an injury-disrupted season carried into the World Cup, with the 34-year-old unable to deliver the creativity and leadership expected as Brazil’s campaign ended prematurely.

On the opposite flank, Ecuador captain Enner Valencia earned a place after failing to convert several promising opportunities, finishing the tournament without a goal despite encouraging underlying attacking statistics.

Leading the attack is Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, whose campaign failed to produce the defining moments that have characterised his illustrious career.

Although expectations were tempered given the 41-year-old’s age, the veteran forward was unable to inspire Portugal to a deep run in the competition.

Planet Football also named Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti as manager of the tournament’s Flop XI.

Despite arriving with an outstanding record of success at club level, the Italian came under criticism for his tactical decisions and substitutions following Brazil’s elimination to Norway, as the five-time world champions fell short of expectations.