Otamendi and Meunier together in symbolic World Cup farewell XI | OneFootball

According to Superdeporte, beIN Sports Francia, the main private broadcaster in France for the 2026 World Cup, has assembled a symbolic farewell XI of veterans who could be playing their final tournament. It features Nicolás Otamendi and Thomas Meunier, both well known to Valencia supporters, with Meunier’s Lille contract ending on 30 June.

The promo places the pair in defence alongside global stars nearing the end of their careers. They include Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, Lionel Messi, 38, Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, and former Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric, 40.

Otamendi, a World Cup winner with Argentina in Qatar 2022, left a lasting mark at Mestalla in 2014/15. A leader under Nuno Espírito Santo, he helped a 77-point La Liga season and Champions League qualification before joining Manchester City.

More than a decade on, the General remains important for the Albiceleste and could be heading for a final World Cup in North America. Past talk of a Valencia return never advanced amid the club’s financial constraints since the pandemic. This summer, out of contract at Benfica, he has opted to go home and has spoken of a lifelong passion for River Plate despite his Vélez past.

Meunier’s case is different for Valencia. The Belgium right-back has never worn the shirt, though he has long featured on recruitment lists and his name has resurfaced in recent weeks as Carlos Corberán favours an experienced option on that flank. At 34, 35 in September, he fits the farewell brief for 2026, yet he has said he plans to play until 40 and remains in excellent shape.

Source: Superdeporte