The Biggest World Cup Disappointments: Stars Who Failed When It Mattered Most
American sports giant ESPN has published the ultimate team of players who failed to meet expectations at the World Cup, and the list is full of big names.
World Cups are always a stage where new football heroes are born, but they are also tournaments where massive stars can completely underperform. Instead of leading their national teams to glory, some of the most famous players on the planet delivered pale performances that will be remembered for a long time.
Analyzing the players' performances, the renowned American outlet ESPN compiled a formation of eleven players who represent the biggest disappointments of this year's World Cup. These footballers arrived at the tournament with the status of undisputed leaders, but their impact on the pitch was far below the expectations of fans and the sports public.
A Defense Lacking Security
The experienced Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera found himself in the net of this infamous team. Ahead of him, the defensive line consists of players from whom flawless stability was expected: German international Joshua Kimmich, Dutch pillar Virgil van Dijk, as well as Marc Guéhi and Nico O'Reilly.
A Pale Midfield and Harmless Attack
Creativity and fighting spirit in the midfield were supposed to be the trademark for Federico Valverde, Scott McTominay, and Bruno Fernandes. However, ESPN believes that these three are the biggest underachievers regarding the organization of play for their respective national teams.
As for the attack, the choice fell on three exceptionally talented names who failed to find their true form. Florian Wirtz, Christian Pulisic, and Brazilian superstar Neymar make up the offensive trio which, instead of filling the opponents' nets, ended up on the list of the biggest World Cup disappointments.
