2026 World Cup: Côte d’Ivoire Lead Youthful Squad Rankings

FIFA has confirmed Côte d’Ivoire as the youngest squad at the ongoing 2026 World Cup, highlighting the nation’s new generation of football talent on the global stage.

The announcement was made on FIFA’s official World Cup social media platform, where the governing body revealed that the Elephants boast an average squad age of 25.8, making them the most youthful team in the tournament.

Côte d’Ivoire are preparing for their opening fixture in the expanded 48-team competition co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, as they continue their campaign with a fresh and energetic squad.

Under coach Emerse Faé, the team has undergone a significant transition, moving away from the experienced core of past generations to a younger, more dynamic group built around emerging stars from top European leagues.

Several established names were left out as the coach opted to prioritise youth development and long-term competitiveness, signalling a new direction for Ivorian football.

Among the standout talents is a wave of players gaining attention across Europe, with many already featuring in top-tier leagues and continental competitions despite their age.

FIFA also highlighted that other nations such as Ecuador, Morocco, Spain, and Norway also field relatively young squads, but none match Côte d’Ivoire’s average age profile.

The Elephants’ youthful setup is expected to bring energy, pace, and unpredictability as they look to make an impact at the tournament and challenge more experienced sides on the world stage.