India, July 22 -- It's not absurdly early to start talking about the next World Cup.

The 2026 edition has only just concluded. The hangover is still fresh and will likely linger until club football returns. But that is precisely what makes the World Cup special. It leaves behind questions, narratives and possibilities that naturally shift attention to the next edition.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has already hinted at an even bigger tournament in 2030, potentially featuring 64 nations. The centenary World Cup will primarily be hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain, with Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay staging commemorative matches to celebrate 100 years since the inaugural tournament.

Four years is a lifetime in football. Entire ge...