Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar Near Final World Cup as 2026 Tournament Marks End for Stars in Their 30s

3 articles · Updated · NBC Miami · Jun 10

Lionel Messi, 39 during the tournament, Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, and Neymar, 34, are widely seen as heading into their last FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Age drives that expectation: Messi is unlikely to return at 43, Ronaldo faces questions over his impact, and Neymar only just made Brazil's squad after fitness struggles.
Other likely farewell appearances include Luka Modric, 40, Virgil van Dijk, nearly 35, Kevin De Bruyne, 35, Mo Salah, 34, Sadio Mane, 34, and Son Heung-min, 34.
Goalkeepers Manuel Neuer, 40, and Guillermo Ochoa, nearly 41, also fit the pattern, though the report notes keepers can often extend their international careers longer.
The North America tournament could therefore serve as a closing chapter for a generation that defined the World Cup across Europe, South America and Africa.

Sources

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