FIFA World Cup 2026: With the FIFA World Cup 2026 only a couple of days away, the excitement among the fans is at a high and understandably so. While the likes of La Liga, Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, the FIFA World Cup trophy arguably remains the highest prize in the sport. Nevertheless, the tournament, which will have 48 teams for the first time, could also be a swansong for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luka Modric among others.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Which football stars could be playing their last World Cup?
5) Luke Modric
Luka Modric is arguably one of the best midfielders the game has seen and will return to captain Croatia in the upcoming edition even at the age of 40, making him amongst the oldest players in this year’s World Cup. Nevertheless, the Croatian is highly unlikely to play another FIFA World Cup, especially given his age. He could reportedly retire from professional football following the FIFA World Cup 2026.
4) Manuel Neuer
Amongst the best goalkeepers the game has produced, Manuel Neuer has been central to Germany’s and Bayern Munich’s fortunes. However, Neuer is yet another player who is 40 and has notably reversed his retirement to feature in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Nevertheless, the veteran is highly unlikely to return for another World Cup edition.
3) Neymar
Brazilian footballer Neymar was in danger of being left out of the FIFA World Cup 2026 squad due to injury and supposed indiscipline but sneaked into the same. Nevertheless, a calf injury is likely to keep him out of at least Brazil’s tournament-opener. With a handful of injuries and struggle in form impacting the 34-year-old, one might be convinced this could be his final World Cup.
2) Lionel Messi
4 years ago, Lionel Messi established himself as a World Cup-winning skipper when he guided Argentina to their second title after they beat France on penalties as it culminated in a heady night for the Argentinians. The star footballer has returned to captain Argentina, who are looking to replicate Brazil’s feat of defending their title successfully. While the 38-year-old has not penned down a retirement date, it is hard to see Messi return for the 2030 edition. Among active players, he is also the leading goal-scorer in World Cups with 13.
1) Cristiano Ronaldo
A bona fide football legend, goal scorer and the flag-bearer of the highest fitness level, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo is chasing his first World Cup title and will leave no stone unturned in achieving it. At 41, Ronaldo not only has the hunger but also the fitness to take Portugal deep into the tournament. While in all likeliness, the veteran could be playing his final World Cup, one cannot rule out the legendary forward returning for the 2030 edition.
