In just a matter of hours, the 2022 FIFA World Cup will begin in Qatar as some of the best players in the world try to showcase their talents in the hope of becoming the new world champions next month.
Let’s take a look at three players who could prove themselves in this year’s FIFA World Cup by performing well for their respective nations.
Gabriel Jesus (Brazil)
Jesus is having an excellent debut season at Arsenal despite failing to score goals for them in recent weeks. Still, he has managed to perform at a very high level and deserves credit for helping the North London club secure a place at the top of the Premier League table going into this World Cup break.
The 25-year-old has registered five goals and seven assists in 20 matches for the Gunners this season across all competitions. Brazil head coach Tite will now hope that Jesus can replicate his good form in club football when he laces up to represent the Brazilian national team in Qatar later this month. He is definitely a player who could prove himself to be a world-class striker during the competition.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
De Bruyne has established himself as one of the best midfielders in world football because of his excellent and successful time at Manchester City so far. The 31-year-old has continued to perform at his best for Pep Guardiola’s side this season after scoring three goals and grabbing 13 assists in 19 matches for them across multiple competitions.
De Bruyne has what it takes to make a real impact for Belgium in this World Cup and would be desperate to do well for them in the competition after failing to help them win the whole tournament in the past.
Declan Rice (England)
The English sensation has endured a tough campaign at West Ham United. He has failed to help the Hammers find consistency in terms of picking up a favourable run of results in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old has netted one goal and grabbed a couple of assists in 20 matches for the East London club this season on all fronts. Still, Declan Rice deserves a pat on the back for anchoring the midfield well for West Ham by averaging 2.4 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.2 shots and 1.3 key passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League (stats via whoscored).
Gareth Southgate would be desperate to get the best out of Rice when England participate in this year’s World Cup. He has the potential to be an influential member of the Three Lions’ first XI and could catch the eye for them in Qatar later this month.
