Fans are not only looking forward to the tournament itself but are also closely following what could be the final World Cup journey of several legendary footballers.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will not only serve as a battleground for the world’s best teams competing for the title, but it may also mark the final appearance on football’s biggest stage for some of the sport’s greatest stars.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar, Luka Modrić, Mohamed Salah and several other experienced players are potentially set to play the last World Cup of their careers. As a result, fans are eagerly anticipating not just the tournament but also the farewell campaigns of these football icons.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar is set to feature in a record sixth World Cup.
Ronaldo scored 30 goals in 37 matches for Al-Nassr this season, while his tally for Portugal has reached 143 international goals.
He could become the first player in history to score 150 international goals.
Despite his extraordinary career, Ronaldo has never managed to lift the World Cup trophy.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
At 38, Lionel Messi is also set to appear in a record sixth World Cup and will lead defending champions Argentina.
Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player has faced injury concerns ahead of the tournament, raising questions about his full fitness.
However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains Argentina’s greatest hope for success.
Luka Modrić (Croatia)
The 40-year-old Croatian captain is preparing for his fifth World Cup, which could also be his last.
Modrić played a key role in guiding Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final and helping them secure third place in 2022.
Neymar Jr. (Brazil)
Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer Neymar is set to play the World Cup at the age of 34.
Having returned to the national team after a two-and-a-half-year absence, Neymar has struggled with several injuries throughout his career.
Although he is younger than Ronaldo and Messi, he will be 38 by the time the 2030 World Cup arrives, making the 2026 tournament widely regarded as his final World Cup.
Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Germany’s veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has returned from retirement and is part of the World Cup squad at the age of 40.
Neuer has played in four World Cups and played a crucial role in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph.
The 2026 tournament is also expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, Mohamed Salah achieved global fame through his success with Liverpool, winning nine major trophies with the club.
Although the 33-year-old is no longer at the peak of his career, Egyptian fans still have high hopes for him.
This is expected to be his second and possibly final World Cup.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
A key member of Belgium’s “Golden Generation” between 2014 and 2022, Kevin De Bruyne continues to play an influential role for both club and country.
Turning 35 this month, the 2026 World Cup is expected to be his fourth and most likely final appearance at the tournament.
Belgium’s hopes of success remain closely tied to his performances.
Also Read: How much gold is inside the FIFA World Cup trophy?
