FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar Among Stars Who Could Be Playing Their Final World Cup
As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues, football fans around the world are not only looking forward to the battle for the prestigious trophy but also preparing to witness what could be the final World Cup appearances of some of the sport’s greatest legends.
With the tournament set to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, several iconic players including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar, Luka Modric, Mohamed Salah and others are expected to make one last push for World Cup glory.
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Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
At 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo is set to feature in a record sixth FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese superstar continues to defy age, scoring 30 goals in 37 matches for Al Nassr this season. Ronaldo has already amassed 143 international goals and could become the first player in football history to reach 150 international goals during the tournament.
Despite an extraordinary career filled with trophies and records, the World Cup remains the one major title that has eluded him.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Lionel Messi, 38, is also expected to appear in his sixth World Cup and lead defending champions Argentina. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.
Although injury concerns have raised questions about his fitness, Messi continues to be Argentina’s biggest hope as they aim to defend their world title.
Luka Modric (Croatia)
Croatian captain Luka Modric is preparing for what could be his fifth and final World Cup. The 40-year-old midfield maestro inspired Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final and helped the team secure third place in 2022.
His leadership and experience remain crucial for Croatia as they seek another memorable tournament run.
Neymar Jr. (Brazil)
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar will be 34 when the World Cup begins. Having recently returned to the national team after a lengthy injury absence, Neymar remains one of Brazil’s biggest stars.
While younger than Ronaldo and Messi, his history of injuries has fueled speculation that 2026 could be his final World Cup appearance.
Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Veteran German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is expected to be part of Germany’s World Cup squad after returning from retirement. The 40-year-old has already participated in four World Cups and played a key role in Germany’s 2014 triumph.
The 2026 tournament is widely expected to be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, Mohamed Salah enters the tournament at age 33. The Liverpool star has won numerous major trophies at club level and remains Egypt’s most influential player.
For Salah, this could be a second and possibly final opportunity to leave his mark on the World Cup.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne will turn 35 during the World Cup year. A central figure in Belgium’s famous “Golden Generation,” De Bruyne continues to perform at the highest level for both club and country.
The 2026 edition is expected to be his fourth and potentially final World Cup campaign.
Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands)
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk will be 35 shortly before the tournament. The Liverpool defender remains a key pillar of the Dutch national team despite entering the later stages of his career.
The upcoming World Cup could be the third and final appearance of one of football’s most respected defenders.
Sadio Mane (Senegal)
Senegal star Sadio Mane missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury but is expected to return for the 2026 tournament. The 34-year-old winger remains an important figure for his country, although he is no longer in his prime years.
Given his age and recent comments about winding down his international career, this could be his final World Cup appearance.
Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico)
Mexico’s legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa is set to join Ronaldo and Messi in making a record sixth World Cup appearance. The veteran shot-stopper will turn 41 shortly before the tournament and has reportedly indicated that he plans to retire from international football after the event.
Hosting the World Cup on home soil makes the occasion even more special for the Mexican icon.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will kick off on June 11 and promises not only thrilling football but also emotional farewells as some of the game’s greatest legends prepare for what may be their final appearance on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
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