The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America is expected to be the last for several prominent players due to age or injury. The list includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luka Modric, Neymar, Manuel Neuer, Mohamed Salah, Kevin de Bruyne, Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, and Guillermo Ochoa.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal, age 41)
Participating in his sixth World Cup. Scored 30 goals in 37 matches for Al-Nassr this season. He is the second-oldest player at the tournament after Scotland's Craig Gordon (43).
Lionel Messi (Argentina, age 38)
Participating in his sixth World Cup. Argentina's all-time leading scorer. Argentina is defending its 2022 title. Has faced injury concerns before the tournament.
Luka Modric (Croatia, age 40)
Participating in his fifth World Cup. Underwent cheekbone surgery before the tournament. Captain and playmaker for Croatia.
Neymar (Brazil, age 34)
Brazil's all-time leading scorer. Returned to the national team after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus. Has a history of fitness issues.
Manuel Neuer (Germany, age 40)
Came out of retirement to be named Germany's first-choice goalkeeper. Played a key role in Germany's 2014 World Cup victory.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt, age 33)
Likely his second and final World Cup appearance. Recently left Liverpool after an underwhelming season.
Kevin de Bruyne (Belgium, age 35)
Participating in his fourth World Cup. Key midfielder for Belgium's "golden generation."
Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands, age 35)
Participating in his third World Cup. Netherlands captain. Won Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool.
Sadio Mane (Senegal, age 34)
Participating in his third World Cup. Missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury. Has indicated the last Africa Cup of Nations was his last.
Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico, age 41)
Participating in his sixth World Cup. Will retire after the tournament. Mexico is a co-host.