End of an era: Ten players set to compete in their final World Cup | OneFootball

The 2026 World Cup is likely to be the final one for several global superstars as they play their final matches on football’s biggest stage.

For decades, players like Cristano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luka Modric, and Neymar have dominated world football and are now expected to play in their final World Cup.

Here are ten of the most iconic footballers who are expected to make compete for the final time from the 11th of June.

10. Lionel Messi – Argentina

Argentina’s captain and generational great is likely entering his final World Cup cycle after defining an era. Widely regarded as a superhuman in world football, the 38-year-old had competed in five World Cups before finally lifting the title in Qatar 2022.

It will be his sixth appearance in the World Cup, and he will be determined to help his country defend their title.

9. Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal

Ronaldo is one of football’s all-time leading scorers and at 41 years old is set to captain Portugal in the 2026 World Cup.

The Portuguese icon has continued to perform at a high level for both his club, Al Nassr, in the Saudi Pro League and his country, having undoubtedly raised the bar for longevity in the sport.

Unlike Messi, Ronaldo has never won a World Cup, but he has international success including a triumph in Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. Now he aims to add the World Cup trophy to his tally on what may be his final attempt.

8. Luca Modric – Croatia

The Croatian legend has had a significant impact on his country; he was awarded the Golden Ball at the 2018 FIFA World Cup as the tournament’s best player.

The midfielder is known for his elegant playmaking, extraordinary vision, and a career built on determination, intelligence, and class.

Luka Modrić has been the heartbeat of Croatia’s midfield for over a decade, consistently delivering at the highest level on the international stage and could feature in his last World Cup.

7. Casemiro – Brazil

Casemiro was in great form during his final season at Manchester United, contributed significantly to Michael Carrick’s success that saw him hired to lead the club on a full-time basis.

His experience and ability to orchestrate the midfield has made him a crucial key player for both club and country.

The 34-year-old will be one of Brazil’s most important players to balance the team and could play in his last World Cup.

6. Harry Kane – England

Kane is in outstanding form for FC Bayern Munich, continuing to deliver goals at an elite level as he challenges record-breaking benchmarks in the Bundesliga.

The England captain is the blueprint of a complete forward and has been one of the most consistent of his generation, combining clinical finishing with intelligent link-up play and leadership on the pitch.

His move to Germany has only reinforced his reputation as a world-class striker across Europe’s top competitions and is being discussed as a firm favourite for the Ballon d’Or. The last Englishman to win the trophy was Michael Owen, way back in 2001.

Heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Kane remains central to the ambitions of England national football team. It could represent his final opportunity to lead England in their quest to win their first World Cup since 1966.

5. Neymar – Brazil

Neymar has not featured for Brazil since October 2023, with a series of injuries disrupting his international career and limiting his opportunities to build momentum with the national team.

Despite those setbacks, the 34-year-old has shown signs of improved form at club level with Santos FC, where he has been working to regain sharpness and consistency.

As one of Brazil’s most influential modern players, his fitness will be a key factor in determining whether he can play a meaningful role at the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will be his last tournament.

4. Mohamed Salah – Egypt

Mo Salah will be making what could only be his second World Cup appearance, while representing Egypt on the global stage for just the fourth time in their history at the tournament.

The 33-year-old forward has been Egypt’s standout star for years, consistently delivering goals and leadership at highest level of club football. His influence in attack makes him crucial to their hopes of causing some upsets.

For Egypt, qualification itself is a major achievement, and Salah’s presence gives them a genuine chance of competing against the world’s best in North America in which could be his last chance to feature on the World Cup stage.

3. Virgil van Dijk – Netherlands

Virgil van Dijk has transformed both the Netherlands and Liverpool defences with his leadership, composure, and aerial dominance.

The 2026 World Cup could represent his final major tournament on the international stage, as he enters the latter stages of his career at 35 and takes on a mentoring role within the squad.

His experience and commanding presence at the back remain central to the Netherlands’ ambitions, guiding a younger defensive core alongside Matthijs de Ligt and Jurriën Timber as they prepare for a new era at international level.

2. Alisson Becker – Brazil

The 33-year-old has been one of the most reliable goalkeepers who has played a vital role for both Liverpool FC and the Brazil national team with his shot-stopping ability, composure and leadership.

The Liverpool keeper could feature in the World Cup for a final time as Brazil transitions towards a younger generation of goalkeepers.

His experience and calm presence remain crucial to Brazil’s ambitions, with Alisson continuing to provide stability and confidence at the heart of the team’s defence.

1. Guillermo Ochoa – Mexico

Guillermo Ochoa has become an iconic figure for the Mexico national football team after representing his country across multiple FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Renowned for his reflex saves, leadership, and memorable performances on football’s biggest stage, Ochoa has been one of Mexico’s most reliable players for over a decade.

This year’s World Cup could mark his final appearance for Mexico, bringing an end to a remarkable international career that has made him one of the country’s most recognizable figures in the sport.