Kevin De Bruyne Leads Group G Stars as Aging Superstars Dominate 2026 World Cup
Newsweek ranked Kevin De Bruyne as the top player in World Cup Group G, alongside Mohamed Salah and Thibaut Courtois, all in their 30s. The article notes that De Bruyne, who will turn 35 during the tournament, remains one of the world's best playmakers despite declining clinical finishing. The ranking highlights how veteran players continue to dominate international football even as they age.
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, Newsweek published player rankings for Group G, identifying three aging superstars as the group's best talents. Kevin De Bruyne of Belgium and Napoli topped the list, described as one of the world's best playmakers whose vision and passing can still elevate teams, though his clinical finishing has declined. Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Liverpool ranked second, with the article noting his uncertain future at club level while acknowledging his continued status as a world-class goalscorer. Thibaut Courtois of Belgium and Real Madrid rounded out the top three, characterized as an elite goalkeeper whose athleticism and intelligence remain valuable despite being 34 years old. The article emphasizes that Group G's best players are all in their 30s, suggesting an unusual dynamic where veteran experience dominates the group rather than emerging young talent.
What's missing
The article does not specify which other nations compete in Group G alongside Belgium and Egypt, nor does it provide context about the overall competitive level or expectations for the group as a whole.
What different sources said
- NewsweekCenter
Is This It for Kevin De Bruyne? World Cup Group G Best Player Rankings
Related
Cush Jumbo Discusses 'Criminal Record' Season 2: Leo's Death, June's Isolation, and Partnership with Hegarty
Cush Jumbo spoke with Variety about the Season 2 finale of Apple TV's 'Criminal Record,' which culminates in a car bomb killing her character June's husband Leo. The season follows Detective Sergeant June Lenker as she investigates a murder committed by a white supremacist organization while her personal life deteriorates and she works alongside her former nemesis Detective Chief Inspector Daniel Hegarty. Jumbo discussed how the season portrays June as increasingly isolated and on the brink of burnout, balancing professional advancement with personal collapse.
LeBron James Says San Antonio's Lack of Distractions Makes It Ideal for Basketball Focus
LeBron James joked on his podcast that San Antonio offers players nothing to do besides basketball, calling it a advantage for teams in the NBA Finals. He argued that the city's minimal distractions help players focus on winning, contrasting it with New York's celebrity culture and media attention. James pointed to the Spurs' championship history under Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich as evidence that this focused environment produces winning basketball.
Heidi Montag Focuses on Music Career as Spencer Pratt Steps Back from Mayoral Race
Heidi Montag was photographed carrying a microphone in Montecito, California, suggesting she is preparing for upcoming performances as her husband Spencer Pratt's Los Angeles mayoral campaign concludes. Montag is scheduled to perform at the Neon Skies Festival in Edmonton on July 18, featuring songs from her albums. The sighting indicates the couple may be refocusing on entertainment ventures after Pratt's unsuccessful mayoral bid.