€670m combined market value 

©TM/IMAGO

Playing in the World Cup is the pinnacle of any footballer’s career, but not every player is fortunate enough to get the chance to do it. Every four years, nations and millions of fans come together for the biggest sports event on the planet, and in June, the United States, Mexico and Canada prepare to host the historic 48-team tournament across all three countries. Unfortunately, for some of the Premier League’s star names, the closest they will come to experiencing that World Cup buzz this summer is likely to be at home.

In the UEFA section, Greece, Hungary, Georgia and Serbia fell below expectations, while African powerhouses Nigeria and Cameroon suffered shock exits in the CAF group stage. The most valuable player among those to miss out is Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai, who captained Hungary during their qualifying campaign. The 26-year-old was recently awarded a sizeable upgrade for his impressive performances with the Reds this season and has a market value of €100 million.

Behind him is PSG’s wing wizard Khivcha Kvaratskhelia, who is valued at €90 million. Next comes Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo, with €75 million-valued Victor Osimhen sandwiched in between the Cameroonian and his club team-mate Benjamin Sesko. Other Premier League representatives include Szoboszlai’s international and club team-mate Milos Kerkez, as well as Brentford winger Dango Ouattara, who was unable to help Burkina Faso qualify. The combined market value of all 12 players included is an eye-watering €670 million.

The failure to qualify has hit certain teams harder than others, with Liverpool, Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen all having two players each miss out on the finals. But with so many games being played in the modern calendar, perhaps they will be grateful. Instead of playing in gruelling conditions in North America, their stars are getting a rest and a chance to recharge their batteries over the summer months.

Even with the expanded tournament stretching to 48 teams, some big nations failed to advance from their respective qualifying groups. Of course, upsets are part of what makes football such an unpredictable and fascinating sport. And for every big name missing out, it means a new team such as Cape Verde or Albania get their chance to debut at the World Cup. But for the likes of Szoboszlai and Osimhen, having to wait another four years for their chance to come around again is a bitter pill to swallow.