The FIFA World Cup is the biggest stage for any player to showcase their skills. The most prestigious tournament in football is the place to shine if you harbour hopes of a transfer, are keen to prove something to your current club, or even just want to end your career on a high.
Here are a number of players who will be extra motivated to perform at Qatar 2022.
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To get a future transfer
Kylian Mbappe, FW, France and Paris Saint-Germain
ESPN reported last month that Mbappe is pushing to leave Paris Saint-Germain just five months after signing a new contract over what he views as broken promises regarding team tactics and recruitment. The 23-year-old signed new terms over the summer, having almost left to join Real Madrid on a free transfer. This season hasn’t been short of stories of discontent, infighting and unhappiness in Paris, though he has also managed 19 goals in 20 games. For France, Mbappe is clearly a key player, and his performances could persuade Madrid to return for him, albeit at a vastly increased transfer fee.
Cristiano Ronaldo, FW, Portugal and Manchester United
It seems incredible to say, but sources told ESPN that no clubs are interested in signing Ronaldo after he made it clear he wanted to leave Man United last summer. The 37-year-old may be one of the world’s greatest players ever, but his influence on the game is waning. A bit-part player before his astonishing interview attack on the club just before the World Cup break, his impact on the national team could be hit by his lack of football, and the forward will have to impress for Portugal when he gets the chance in order to attract a potential new club.
