Unveiling the Future of Women's Football: 10 Rising Stars to Watch in 2026
The world of women's football is brimming with talent, and 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for several emerging stars. Here's a glimpse into the future of the sport, featuring 10 female footballers who are poised to make their mark on the global stage.
Alara Sehitler, Bayern Munich and Germany (19): Sehitler's rise to prominence in Bayern Munich's first team is no surprise. Her creativity and impact as a midfielder have been instrumental in José Barcala's side. With three Frauen Bundesliga goals to her name this season and a pivotal role in Bayern's Champions League comeback against Arsenal, Sehitler is set to become a regular for Germany's senior team, aiming to secure a spot in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
Giulia Galli, Roma and Italy (17): Galli is a rising star in Italian football, widely recognized as one of the best young talents in a long time. Making her Serie A debut at just 16 years old, she has already established herself in the senior squad. Galli's impact is evident with her first club goal in September and her presence in the Champions League. Her stellar performance in Italy's Under-17 Euros semi-final run and subsequent bronze boot at the Under-17 World Cup further cements her potential. Galli is destined to shine at the upcoming Under-20 World Cup.
Fridah Mukoma, Kansas City Current and Zambia (19): Mukoma, a Zambian talent, has yet to make her mark for Kansas City Current since joining in March. However, her impact at the international level is undeniable. She won the golden boot at the 2024 Cosafa Women's Championship, showcasing her scoring prowess. Mukoma's performance will be a key focus at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, where she is expected to shine.
Daniela Galic, Vittsjö and Australia (19): Galic, an attacking midfielder, has demonstrated her potential in the Swedish league. Her impressive form in the second half of the 2025 Damallsvenskan season, with four goals and three assists, has earned her a starting spot. While she awaits her debut for Joe Montemurro's Matildas, her successful Young Matildas career positions her as a strong contender for the Asian Cup squad.
Paula Comendador, Real Madrid and Spain (18): Comendador's goal-scoring prowess in youth football is unparalleled. Her achievements with Spain's under-17 and under-19 teams, including a silver medal, golden boot, and silver ball at the 2024 Under-17 Women's World Cup, showcase her exceptional talent. Moving up to the Real Madrid senior team in July, she has been a bench player this season. With an Under-20 World Cup on the horizon, Comendador's senior debut for La Roja is on the horizon.
Montserrat Saldívar, Club América and Mexico (19): Saldívar's breakthrough in Mexico is already a reality. Since her debut at 14, she has amassed over 100 appearances for Club América's Liga MX Femenil side. Her integral role in Mexico's youth success, including a silver medal at the Concacaf Under-20 Championship, has been remarkable. With a senior debut in October 2024 and the prospect of another Under-20 World Cup and Concacaf Women's Championship, Saldívar's future looks bright.
Wassa Sangaré, London City Lionesses and France (19): Sangaré's impact in the Women's Super League has been immediate. Loaned from OL Lyonnes, she has seamlessly adapted to the top English league, starting in nine consecutive league matches. Her success at the youth level, including the 2023 Under-17 Euros and under-19 semi-finals, led to her senior debut in December. Sangaré's future looks promising, with a focus on the Nations League and upcoming tournaments.
Kaylee Hunter, AFC Toronto and Canada (17): The launch of Canada's Northern Super League in 2025 brought Hunter into the spotlight. Her role in AFC Toronto's success, including the inaugural NSL Supporters' Shield and final appearance, was remarkable. As a talented forward, she finished as the second-top scorer with 14 goals and was named rookie of the year. Hunter's performances have caught the eye of Canada's head coach, Casey Stoney, and she is set to make her debut.
Lucia Kendall, Aston Villa and England (21): Kendall's journey to the top has been rapid. Her move from Southampton to Aston Villa and the WSL, coupled with her impressive performances in midfield, caught the attention of Sarina Wiegman. Kendall's debut for the Lionesses against Australia in October was a standout performance. Scoring her first England goal against Ghana at St Mary's Stadium, her childhood club, Kendall is set to play a crucial role in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Trinity Armstrong, San Diego Wave and USA (18): Armstrong's debut season in the NWSL has been a triumph. Establishing herself as a key player in Jonas Eidevall's San Diego Wave, she made 23 regular-season appearances and scored a goal. Her experience at the under-15 level and ever-present role in the USA's Under-17 World Cup third-place finish showcase her maturity. Armstrong's performances have undoubtedly caught the eye of Emma Hayes, who is known for her strategic player recruitment.
