The FIFA U-20 World Cup, known for being the stage where future football legends are forged, is preparing for an edition in Chile with notable absences. Promising figures who, for various reasons, will not be able to participate in the tournament, generating a significant impact on the competition.
This year’s edition faces an unusual panorama, as several of the most outstanding young promises of world football will not be present. Renowned clubs have decided not to release their players due to factors such as the tight schedule, the distance from the venue, and professional commitments.
Among the most notable absentees are names like Lamine Yamal, Franco Mastantuono, Claudio “Diablito” Etcheverry, and Estevao Willian.
Sensitive Losses: Argentina and Brazil
Argentina, although presenting a competitive team, will regret the absence of Etcheverry, midfielder for Bayer Leverkusen. However, it will have young talents like Gianluca Prestianni, Julio Soler, Milton Delgado, Maher Carrizo and Mateo Silvetti, the latter backed by Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
Brazil will also not be able to count on its established figures in the elite such as Endrick, Vitor Roque and Angelo Gabriel. Despite this, the Canarinha will seek the title with players like Deivid Washington (Chelsea), Luigi (Palmeiras) and Wesley (Al-Nassr).Mexico, Chile, and Other Confederations
Mexico arrives at the tournament without Obeid Vargas, retained by the Seattle Sounders, but will have midfielder Gabriel Mora, 16 years old, and Elías Montiel from Pachuca.
Chile, as the host, will also suffer the absence of its greatest talent, defender Iván Román, retained by Atlético Mineiro. In Oceania, Nestory Irakunda (Australia) was not released by Watford. In Africa, the absences of Emmanuel Chukwu and Precious Benjamin stand out. Morocco, for its part, will have Ali Maamar (Anderlecht) and Gessime Yassine (Dunkerque).A Challenge for FIFA
This situation highlights the challenge facing FIFA. The rapid rise of young talents who become key players in elite clubs at an early age clashes with the formative and competitive spirit of the U-20 World Cup.
The tournament in Chile, which generates great expectations, will be marked by the absence of these stars who, although they are not on the field, are already part of the global football conversation.
