Discover how the breakout stars of the 2022 FIFA World Cup have progressed in their careers. Track their rise across world football and what’s next for them.
Breakout Stars from the 2022 World Cup: Where Are They Now?
The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar was unforgettable—not only for Argentina’s epic victory led by Lionel Messi but also for the emergence of fresh, fearless talents who lit up the global stage. These breakout stars shocked fans, stunned opponents, and captured headlines, becoming household names almost overnight.
Now, three years later in 2025, these players are no longer unknowns. Many have cemented their place at top clubs, become regulars in their national teams, and continue to play key roles in shaping the future of MJ88.
In this in-depth, SEO-optimized article, we revisit the standout breakout performers from Qatar 2022 and answer the pressing question: Where are they now?
1. Enzo Fernández (Argentina)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Named Young Player of the Tournament
- A key midfield engine in Argentina’s title-winning squad
Career Since 2022:
Post-World Cup, Enzo secured a high-profile move to Chelsea for over €120 million. Despite initial struggles adapting to Premier League intensity, Enzo is now a central figure in Chelsea’s midfield, offering composure, vision, and defensive solidity.
Current Club (2025): Chelsea FC
Role: Starting Central Midfielder
Impact: Integral in Chelsea’s midfield rebuild under new management
2. Jude Bellingham (England)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Mature performances beyond his age
- Dominated midfield with confidence and creativity
Career Since 2022:
Bellingham’s post-World Cup transfer to Real Madrid turned out to be a masterstroke. He has since won La Liga titles, became a leader at just 21, and continues to break records with goals and assists from midfield.
Current Club (2025): Real Madrid
Role: Star Playmaker / Box-to-Box Midfielder
Impact: One of the best midfielders in world football today
3. Josko Gvardiol (Croatia)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Commanded Croatia’s backline at just 20 years old
- Known for his mask and world-class tackling
Career Since 2022:
Gvardiol joined Manchester City in 2023. Under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, he has grown into a tactically sharp and positionally versatile defender, often rotating between left-back and center-back roles.
Current Club (2025): Manchester City
Role: Key Defender
Impact: One of Europe’s most consistent young defenders
4. Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Anchored Morocco’s historic semifinal run
- Praised for his relentless work rate and ball recovery
Career Since 2022:
After starring at Fiorentina, Amrabat moved to Manchester United on loan before making a permanent switch to Galatasaray in 2024. He remains a respected figure in European football with a strong presence in midfield.
Current Club (2025): Galatasaray
Role: Defensive Midfielder
Impact: Key contributor in domestic and European campaigns
5. Cody Gakpo (Netherlands)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Scored three goals in the group stage
- Became the Netherlands’ offensive spearhead
Career Since 2022:
Gakpo’s standout World Cup earned him a move to Liverpool. While competition has been fierce, he has established himself as a reliable attacking option, often rotating across the front three.
Current Club (2025): Liverpool
Role: Versatile Forward
Impact: Rotational starter and consistent performer
6. Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Known for his technical dribbling and ability to break lines
- Impressed against Spain and Portugal
Career Since 2022:
Transferred to Olympique Marseille, but a 2024 move to Sevilla reignited his momentum. Ounahi is now part of a Sevilla midfield rebuild and remains a regular for Morocco.
Current Club (2025): Sevilla FC
Role: Creative Midfielder
Impact: Valuable creator in La Liga and for the national team
7. Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Scored twice against South Korea
- Showed his dynamic attacking range
Career Since 2022:
Kudus moved from Ajax to West Ham United in 2023 and quickly became a fan favorite. His versatility and flair have made him one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders.
Current Club (2025): West Ham United
Role: Attacking Midfielder / Winger
Impact: One of West Ham’s most creative forces
8. Cho Gue-sung (South Korea)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Scored two headed goals vs. Ghana
- Became a viral sensation in Korea and beyond
Career Since 2022:
Moved to FC Midtjylland in Denmark, then to Fenerbahçe in 2024. Cho remains South Korea’s top striker and has improved his all-round game with a focus on European football discipline.
Current Club (2025): Fenerbahçe
Role: Target Striker
Impact: Leader for club and country
9. Ritsu Doan (Japan)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Scored crucial goals against Germany and Spain
- Energetic, fearless winger
Career Since 2022:
Continues to thrive in the Bundesliga with SC Freiburg, becoming one of the league’s most underrated wingers. Doan also plays a vital role for Japan in Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers.
Current Club (2025): SC Freiburg
Role: Right Winger
Impact: Key player in Bundesliga and AFC qualifiers
10. Gonzalo Ramos (Portugal)
2022 World Cup Performance:
- Hat-trick hero in the Round of 16 against Switzerland
- Replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting XI
Career Since 2022:
After moving to Paris Saint-Germain, Ramos faced tough competition but still managed to score regularly and develop his game. He is now expected to be Portugal’s main striker heading into 2026.
Current Club (2025): Paris Saint-Germain
Role: Central Striker
Impact: Rising star in Ligue 1 and the Portuguese national team
Football Development Since 2022: A Rising Generation
The 2022 FIFA World Cup served as a launching pad for a new wave of international stars. These players didn’t just shine for a moment—they transformed their careers, attracted global attention, and raised the competitive bar for the next generation.
From Premier League breakthroughs to La Liga dominance, their journeys are a testament to the global reach of football talent and the opportunity the World Cup offers.
Final Thoughts: Breakouts Become Mainstays
Many of these 2022 World Cup breakout stars are now essential figures for both club and country. As we approach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fans can expect these names not just to participate—but to lead their nations on football’s biggest stage.
⚽ Call to Action: Celebrate the Journey of Football’s Rising Stars
Support these rising icons who continue to shape the global football narrative. Whether you’re cheering for your national team or your favorite club, stay tuned and passionate.
Follow their journeys. Cheer for their success. Support football.
