Being called up to a World Cup for the first time is one of the most exciting moments in a footballer's career. The opportunity to represent your country at the biggest international tournament does not come around often. Of the 16 Barça players travelling to the World Cup, five will be making their debut on football's biggest stage.

Famous five

Spain arrive as one of the strongest teams in the tournament, both in terms of squad quality and style of play. After winning Euro 2024, they are among the favourites once again. Of the eight Barça players selected by Spain, three will be appearing at a World Cup for the first time: Lamine Yamal, Cubarsí and Joan Garcia.

Barça's recent signing Anthony Gordon will also be making his World Cup debut for England, eager to showcase his talent on the global stage. The fifth debutant is Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim from the U19A side, whose performances have not gone unnoticed.

Going for seconds 

As for the rest of Hansi Flick's squad, many will be playing in their second World Cup after appearing in Qatar 2022. They are Eric Garcia, Pedri, Gavi, Olmo, Ferran, Raphinha, Koundé, Frenkie de Jong, Araujo and Cancelo. In Araujo's case, he was called up for the previous World Cup but did not play any minutes.

Rashford, third time 

The England forward will be appearing at his third World Cup, having previously featured in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. He has made 11 World Cup appearances and scored three goals, all in Qatar: one against Iran and two against Wales.

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