The 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be more than just another global tournament. It feels like a turning point, where some of the greatest footballers of the modern era may be stepping onto the world stage for one final time. Age, injuries and the natural passing of time mean several legends are now approaching the end of their international careers.
While nothing is confirmed regarding the international futures of the players featured in this article, conversations around squad selections, tournament favourites and World Cup bets are already beginning to gather pace. Yet for many fans, the biggest storyline is the possibility that several of football’s most iconic figures could be making their final appearance at a World Cup.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi will mark 4 years since he lifted the trophy in 2026’s World Cup, looking to retain the title and match his dominant performances throughout the 2022 campaign. However, what is most important is potentially giving a sense of relief to the 39-year-old, who will go down as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His role in Argentina’s setup is massive, as both a playmaker and goalscorer, doubling up as a leader to guide the younger members of the squad. Few players have been able to be the talking point of every World Cup they attend, but Messi has done so for multiple decades, potentially calling 2026 his last dance.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo is expected to take to the pitch in 2026 at the age of 41, which in itself is an outstanding achievement, highlighting his longevity in the sport. He has already said that this tournament is most likely to be his final World Cup, which has left fans all over the world in high anticipation to give the Portuguese legend a huge send-off. The World Cup is the one major trophy Ronaldo has not been able to get his hands on, making this his final attempt at winning this prestigious tournament. Whatever happens in the summer for Ronaldo, this competition holds huge significance in his career, with the forward looking to end his international career on a high.
Casemiro
Casemiro has built one of the most respected careers in football, becoming an iconic figure in Brazil after showcasing his ability as a defensive midfielder at both Real Madrid and Manchester United. He made his senior debut way back in 2011 at just 19 years old, slowly growing into being one of the most prominent figures on the national team, competing in numerous tournaments, including World Cups. He played a big role both in 2018 and 2022, not just for his contributions on the pitch, but also his leadership qualities off it, guiding youngsters to grow as players. With his age and the demands of international football growing beyond what he may be able to offer, it is likely that 2026 will sadly be his final World Cup, which he would likely hope could bring an end to an international career with a major title.
Luka Modrić
Modrić will be 40 going into what could be his final World Cup, drawing close to an international career that has inspired a whole nation. Having already led Croatia to a World Cup final in 2018, he remains one of the greatest midfielders that the world has ever seen, even picking up a Ballon d’Or during his time at Real Madrid. Reports have come out about an injury concern, but he will be eager to overcome this and play in the US. It is incredibly likely that this could be his final World Cup, and it will mark an international journey unlike any other player in the world.
Neymar Jr
Despite some doubts about his potential selection, the 2026 World Cup could be the Brazilian’s final international campaign at the age of 34. He has been a key figure for the nation for many years, and has inspired a whole generation around the world with his individual skill that can completely transform a game. His fitness and consistency have been questioned in recent years, leading to his selection for the squad in question, but if he were to be picked, the 2026 World Cup is more than likely going to be his last appearance at the international level.
Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne is looking to attend the 2026 World Cup at the age of 34 as the leader of a Belgian side that is currently going through a bit of a transitional stage. He has been a huge part of Belgium’s Golden Generation, particularly during their 2018 campaign that shocked the world and saw the nation finish 3rd. Despite his injury struggles this year, he will be focusing on availability for the tournament, influencing games with his passing range and intelligence on the ball, being unlike any other player. It is realistic that this could be his final appearance, making it an emotional goodbye to one of the Premier League’s greatest-ever midfielders on an international stage.
Article written by Igaming agency
