Paris Saint-Germain has several players representing their countries at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While many have delivered strong performances, a few high-profile stars have struggled to match expectations. Their club form has not yet carried over to the international stage, raising questions as the tournament enters the knockout rounds.
Among the players facing the most criticism are Vitinha, João Neves, and Désiré Doué. Each entered the World Cup with high expectations but has found it difficult to produce consistent performances.
Vitinha arrived at the tournament after another impressive season with Paris Saint-Germain. Many expected him to lead Portugal’s midfield alongside Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva. Portugal was widely viewed as one of the strongest teams in the competition because of its talented midfield.
However, Portugal has struggled to control matches in the way many expected. Vitinha has not consistently influenced games or dictated the tempo from midfield. His passing and movement have shown quality at times, but he has not reached the level he displayed during the club season.
Portugal secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia to reach the Round of 16, but Vitinha had only a limited impact before being substituted. As Portugal prepares to face Spain, the team will need a stronger performance from one of its key midfield players.
João Neves has experienced a similar tournament. The young midfielder made an excellent start by scoring a header in Portugal’s opening match against DR Congo. That goal suggested he could become one of the breakout stars of the competition.
Since then, however, Neves has struggled to maintain that level. He has worked hard in midfield but has not consistently controlled matches or created enough opportunities. Portugal’s midfield has often been unable to dominate possession against strong opponents.
The upcoming meeting with Spain could be a defining moment for Neves. The midfield battle is expected to play a major role in deciding which team advances, and Portugal will need its young star to produce his best football.
France midfielder Désiré Doué has also faced high expectations. The 21-year-old scored his first World Cup goal during France’s 4-1 victory over Norway, showing his attacking ability and confidence.
Despite that goal, many observers expected even more from the talented winger. After an outstanding season with Paris Saint-Germain, Doué arrived at the World Cup as one of France’s brightest young players. His speed, creativity, and technical skill made him a strong candidate to become a regular starter.
France coach Didier Deschamps selected Doué ahead of fellow Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola for a place in the starting lineup. However, Doué has found it difficult to produce consistent displays in consecutive matches.
Barcola has taken advantage of his opportunities and impressed alongside Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, and Kylian Mbappé in France’s attack. His recent form has increased competition for places and may reduce Doué’s playing time as the tournament continues.
Although these three players have not fully met expectations, the World Cup is far from over. Knockout matches often provide players with the chance to change opinions through one outstanding performance.
Vitinha, João Neves, and Doué all remain important members of their national teams. Strong displays in the coming rounds could quickly silence criticism and help their countries move closer to World Cup success. With the pressure rising, all three Paris Saint-Germain stars will be eager to show the quality that made them key players at club level.
