Players Who Could Play Their Last World Cup in 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States Canada and Mexico could be the final tournament for some of the greatest players to ever grace the game. Lionel Messi at 38 and Cristiano Ronaldo at 41 headline a remarkable list of legends who will be hanging up their international boots after this summer. Here are the players who could be playing their last World Cup in 2026.
| Player | Country | Age at 2026 WC | Club | Why It Could Be Their Last |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | Argentina | 38 | Inter Miami | Has stated 2026 will likely be his final World Cup |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | Portugal | 41 | Al-Nassr | The oldest player likely to feature — an extraordinary achievement |
| Luka Modric | Croatia | 40 | Real Madrid | One of the greatest midfielders of his generation |
| Thomas Muller | Germany | 36 | Bayern Munich | World Cup winner in 2014 possibly bowing out |
| Kevin De Bruyne | Belgium | 34 | Manchester City | Belgium's golden generation fading |
| Manuel Neuer | Germany | 40 | Bayern Munich | Legendary goalkeeper at his fifth World Cup |
| Mohamed Salah | Egypt | 34 | Liverpool | May struggle to qualify again — could be his farewell |
| Luis Suarez | Uruguay | 39 | Club TBC | Four World Cups and a legendary career |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Lionel Messi's last World Cup?
Yes. Lionel Messi has indicated 2026 will be his final World Cup. He will be 38 years old at the tournament.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing at World Cup 2026?
Yes. Cristiano Ronaldo is in Portugal's squad aged 41. It will almost certainly be his final international tournament.
Is Luka Modric playing at World Cup 2026?
Luka Modric is expected to feature for Croatia aged 40 in what is widely expected to be his farewell to international football.
How old is Messi at World Cup 2026?
Lionel Messi will be 38 years old during the 2026 FIFA World Cup having been born on June 24 1987.
How old is Cristiano Ronaldo at World Cup 2026?
Cristiano Ronaldo will be 41 years old during the 2026 FIFA World Cup having been born on February 5 1985.
Which England players could be at their last World Cup in 2026?
Several experienced England players including Jordan Henderson and Jordan Pickford could be at their final World Cup in 2026.
Related Pages