It is the ultimate shop window: a World Cup with 48 teams packed full of players eager to prove themselves on the biggest stage, while Premier League clubs watch on with half an eye on potential signings. With the transfer window now open, BBC Sport journalists have picked out several key names under the microscope.
England goalkeeper James Trafford, who did not feature in England's opener against Croatia, accepted on the eve of that game that he must be first choice at club level to fulfil his dream of becoming his country's number one. The Manchester City cup keeper could yet be the subject of a third approach from Newcastle in as many years. Meanwhile, Fulham's Antonee Robinson – a key figure for the USA, playing 90 minutes against Paraguay and 80 against Australia – could come into Manchester United's thinking if they decide to bolster their left-sided options with a more defensive player.
“Premier League clubs target World Cup stars as Scotland face early exit after Brazil thrashing.”
Brighton have already had a couple of bids turned down for Tottenham defender Luka Vuskovic. The 19-year-old started Croatia's opener against England in a three-man defence but was replaced 20 minutes after half-time as Thomas Tuchel's side dominated. Vuskovic was not completely to blame for Harry Kane's free header for England's second goal, but he was nearest the ball as Kane ran free and could not get beyond John Stones when leaping to challenge.
Crystal Palace, fresh from winning the Conference League, now face a Europa League campaign that demands greater squad depth. The club brought in Jorgen Strand Larsen, Brennan Johnson and Evann Guessand in the winter window, but left-back remains a concern with Tyrick Mitchell the only first-team quality option, while right-back Daniel Munoz, 30, had knee surgery last season and has not looked the same since. Munoz is now at the World Cup with Colombia.
As clubs track these stars, some nations are already staring at elimination. Scotland are on the brink of an early World Cup 2026 exit after a thrashing by Brazil. The Scots must not lose their next match if they are to progress into the knockout stages – leaving the Tartan Army in the dark as to whether they will advance.