As we reach the quarter-finals, this year's World Cup is as unpredictable as ever. But the game on the field isn't the only one we're noticing this summer. The tournament’s hottest players are proving that their influence extends well beyond the field, in the form of tasteful styles and looks that could kill. Whether it’s turning their stadium arrivals into runway moments or showing off their off-duty looks online, these professional athletes are shaping a dynamic menswear scene one tunnel fit at a time. Ahead, we've rounded up some of the most stylish men of the 2026 World Cup, whose wardrobes we can't help but covet.
Related article: Fashion Has Officially Caught FIFA Fever
Jules Koundé
When it comes to the world's fashion-fluent athletes, one can't overlook Jules Koundé. With a career in modelling, Koundé has made an elusive household name in the industry itself. In 2024, luxury French Maison Jacquemus appointed him as brand ambassador. The French national team player is a true defender not just on the pitch, but also of menswear fashion that outwardly rejects the norm. He often mixes high-fashion with novel pieces from emerging designers. His arrivals at Clairefontaine hold some of his memorable looks, like the graphic knitted tank top he famously paired with a black Simone Rocha skirt, as well as a tailored ensemble featuring a floor-length Louis Gabriel Nouchi double-breasted coat, and the epitome of French fashion luxury: Hermès's Birkin bag.
Related article: The Latest Sports & Fashion Collaborations To Have On Your Radar
Michael Olise
A "nonchalant" player to netizens, but a self-assured one when it comes to dressing up. The standout Bayern Munich winger currently playing for the French team dresses for himself. He pairs statement accessories in deliberately understated, practical looks. Think Bottega Veneta tote bag in hand, and a hat collection ranging from Chrome Hearts baseball caps to a Vaquera faux-fur hat. The English footballer's enigmatic appeal extends sartorially, often preferring oversized silhouettes that are still tailor-made to compliment the figure.
Related article: Cheer For Your Favourite Team In Style With The Adidas 2026 World Cup Home Kits
Keito Nakamura
The Asian athletes stand at the forefront of football heartthrobs this season. Courtesy of his charming looks and impressive on-field performance, Keito Nakamura is no doubt a crush-worthy rising star. The first goal from the Japanese national team wasn't the only thing the 25-year-old scored at this tournament. He has attracted the full attention of top clubs and luxury fashion brands alike. He attended the Louis Vuitton and Sacai shows at the Men's Paris Fashion Week fall/winter 2026 in January. The Abiko-born player's style is strikingly refined. Effortlessly infusing Japanese workwear influences with streetwear, his sleek fits are practical at their very core.
Related article: For Louis Vuitton, Pharrell Williams Sends A Tidal Wave Through Paris Fashion Week
Erling Haaland
Man City star striker Ha-Ha-Ha-Haaland has grown tremendously since his 100-emoji hoodie, and we love to see it. Arguably the most amusing player to watch this World Cup season, Norway's ruthless forward Erling Haaland has been operating like a constant machine on the pitch. With a unfiltered personality and natural tomfoolery sending the internet into a frenzy, one might overlook the Haaland's ability to dapper up. The 6'5 star athlete (that's about 195cm) has an affinity to pairing his mainly monochromatic outfits with luxury handbags. Often seen out with his sumptuous collection of Hermès bags, his pieces range from a black Birkin to the Kelly Maxi, and the limited-edition "Endless Road" design.
Lamine Yamal
At 18-years old, Lamine Yamal is already an unstoppable player who has surpassed records made by football legends like Lionel Messi, and is also a certified Gen Z style icon. Behind his bold, daring looks is Madrid-based stylist Ana Sotillo, who has worked with the young athlete since late last year. The Barcelona teenager's accolades extends beyond his sports and into his style. From being the main muse of the Adidas x SP5DER F50 Formotion collection that features limited-edition cleats in his signature pink colour, to starring in the "Backyard Legends" campaign alongside household names like Messi, David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, Jude Bellingham, Hollywood actor Timothee Chalamet and Bad Bunny, Yamal is set to be the fresh new face to lead the sport. His go-to style blends high-end with the up-and-coming, incorporating younger streetwear labels like the LA-based 424 with Pharrell Williams' Louis Vuitton collection.
Related article: The ELLE Word: Men's Spring/Summer 2027 At Paris Fashion Week
Jude Bellingham
Nobody's a stranger to this handsome Brummie. A player inseparable from his suave look and magnetic charm, Jude Bellingham makes dressing up look as easy as staring at his beautifully sculpted face. His preference for clean, elegant silhouettes ultimately works in favour of the modern dandy Englishman. He often goes for muted colour palettes that highlight the garments' silhouettes. Pairing relaxed shirts with tailored trousers, the midfielder understands the power of timeless classics. From sharp tuxedo suits to a Y-3 NBHD leather racer jacket and pastel Palm Angels tracksuit, Bellingham is never one to hide his dapper dressing abilities.
Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé is certainly taking on the most crucial mission of his career so far—one that potentially carries the nation's glory and a third World Cup title. The Les Bleus team captain is assertive and decisive on the pitch. And somehow, these are the same qualities he brings to fashion. The Paris-born player is homebound also in his sartorial language too. As global ambassador to Jonathan Anderson's Dior, the elite player is a recurring muse for the Maison's menswear and fragrance campaigns. Similar to his teammates, Mbappé's arrivals at Clairefontaine yield some of his best looks. One of which was a look that featured a Dior leather-collared brown cotton jacket and Normandie bag in brown suede. With a focus on luxe materials and statement accessories, his off-duty style reflects the same elite quality he brings to the games.
Virgil van Dijk
The Netherlands national team's captain never backs down on his team, and neither does he in serving impeccable looks. His fabulous slicked-back hair that stays locked in place even during the tumultuous of matches is one thing, but his expensive taste is another. His sleek and timeless style makes the father of four one of the most expensive-looking men in the sport. Often seen pairing signature blue jeans with structured jackets and versatile trainers, the 6'4 (193cm) Dutchman strikes gold in understated elegance. As a living epitome of masculinity, van Dijk's handbag collection is truly enviable. From his Chanel Black Calfskin tote, to the Hermès HAC, the strong player won't witness defeat in the style department.