The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to showcase the world’s top football talent, but for several legendary players, the tournament could mark their final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Fans across the globe are expected to closely follow not only the battle for the title but also the farewell campaigns of some of the sport’s most iconic figures, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., Luka Modric and Manuel Neuer.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, is poised to feature in a record sixth World Cup. The veteran forward enjoyed another prolific season with Al-Nassr, scoring 30 goals in 37 matches, while his international tally for Portugal has reached 143 goals. Despite a glittering career filled with individual and team honors, the World Cup trophy remains the one major title missing from his collection.
Argentina’s Lionel Messi, 38, is also expected to make a record sixth World Cup appearance and lead the defending champions. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. Although concerns have been raised over his fitness following recent injury setbacks, Messi is still regarded as Argentina’s key figure heading into the tournament.
Croatia captain Luka Modric, who turned 40 this year, is preparing for what could be his fifth and final World Cup. The midfield maestro played a pivotal role in guiding Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final and a third-place finish in 2022, cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest-ever players.
Brazilian star Neymar Jr., 34, is also expected to feature in the tournament. Brazil’s all-time leading scorer recently returned to the national team after a lengthy absence and continues to battle concerns over recurring injuries. While younger than Ronaldo and Messi, Neymar will be 38 by the time the 2030 World Cup arrives, making 2026 a likely final opportunity to compete on the global stage.
Germany’s veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, has returned from international retirement and is once again part of the national team setup. A World Cup winner in 2014, Neuer has already participated in four editions of the tournament and could be making his last appearance at football’s premier event.
With several football legends nearing the twilight of their careers, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a memorable tournament and a potential farewell stage for some of the game’s greatest icons.