10 potential breakout stars of WC 2018 we can’t wait to see [Alireza Jahanbakhsh]

Four Four Two – LONDON, From the ‘Iranian Ronaldo’ to the flying Peruvian wing-back who helped upset Brazil, Michael Yokhin picks out these relatively low-profile talents who could become superstars by the end of Russia 2018.

ALIREZA JAHANBAKHSH (IRAN)

His name could be impossible for many to pronounce properly, but commentators all over the world should beware: Jahanbakhsh is on his way to becoming a major star. The ‘Iranian Ronaldo’ has just made history by becoming the first Asian top scorer ever in a Western European league, having netted 21 goals for AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie. He was also the third-best assister in Holland with 12, so contributed directly to 33 goals in 33 matches.

Not bad for a winger, and comparisons to Mohamed Salah would be natural – even if Jahanbakhsh is nicknamed after Real Madrid’s superstar attacker. He is lightning quick, blessed with supreme dribbling skills and confidence, but also unselfish too. Jahanbakhsh has it all. He’s only 24 but has World Cup experience to his name, having taken part in the 2014 tournament as a substitute. Expect him to shine brightly in Russia.