Every World Cup is about new heroes, but it’s also about farewells. The 2026 FIFA World Cup won’t just introduce a new format and more teams. It could also mark the final chapter for some of football’s greatest modern icons.

These are players who defined an era – lifting trophies, breaking records, and creating moments that fans will never forget. And in 2026, they may take the global stage one last time. Here are seven legends who could be playing their final World Cup.

7. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

For Egypt, Salah isn’t just a player, he’s a symbol. Currently 33, Salah will turn 34 during the world cup. He’s still within range for top-level performance but nearing the twilight of his international career. While Egypt hasn’t consistently qualified for recent World Cups, the expanded format increases their chances significantly.

Salah’s pace and explosiveness may evolve, but his intelligence and finishing remain elite. If Egypt makes it, 2026 could be his final shot at leaving a lasting World Cup legacy – something that has so far eluded him. Egypt starts their world cup group stage facing Belgium, followed by New Zealand and Iran.

Read more: Mohamed Salah joins the 50-goal club in the Champions League

6. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)

Kevin De Bruyne has been the heartbeat of Belgium’s “golden generation.” Aged 34, De Bruyne would turn 35 during the 2026 world cup. Injuries have already begun to play a role in recent seasons, raising questions about longevity at the highest level.

Still, players of De Bruyne’s vision and passing rarely fade completely. Even at reduced physical intensity, he could dictate games from midfield. This tournament could mark the final international chapter for one of the best playmakers of his generation. Belgium is set to begin its world cup campaign taking on Egypt, followed by Iran and New Zealand. 

5. Neymar (Brazil)

Few players have carried expectations like Neymar. Brazil’s all-time great in the modern era, Neymar has already hinted that recent tournaments might be among his last at the highest level.

Neymar turned 34 in February this year – an age where many attacking players begin to decline. Injuries have also been a recurring concern. But if fit, Neymar still offers creativity, flair, and match-winning ability. A final World Cup run could be his chance to cement his legacy alongside Brazil’s all-time legends. Brazil faces Morocco to kick off their world cup, followed by Haiti and Scotland. 

Read more: Neymar’s 8.6 keeps World Cup 2026 in sight

4. Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands)

Virgil van Dijk represents defensive excellence at its peak. Though currently 34, van Dijk would turn 35 during this world cup. While defenders often age better than attackers, the physical demands of elite football are relentless.

Van Dijk’s leadership, positioning, and aerial dominance make him invaluable. Even if his pace dips slightly, his reading of the game keeps him world-class. For the Netherlands, he remains a cornerstone – and 2026 could be his final opportunity to lead them deep into a World Cup. Netherlands kick off their WC campaign against Japan, later facing Sweden and Tunisia.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Cristiano Ronaldo at a World Cup is more than football – it’s history in motion. Ronaldo turned 41 this year heading into the world cup. That alone makes his potential participation remarkable. While his role may evolve – from starter to impact substitute – his presence, mentality, and goal-scoring instinct remain unmatched.

Ronaldo has consistently defied age throughout his career. If he makes the squad, it would likely be his final World Cup appearance and a fitting farewell for one of the greatest players ever. Portugal starts the World Cup facing DR Congo, followed by Uzbekistan and Columbia.

Read more: Cristiano Ronaldo’s 9.3 Rating Shows That Age is Just a Number

2. Luka Modrić (Croatia)

Luka Modrić is the definition of timeless. Even in his late 30s, he continues to control games with elegance and precision. Modric would be aged 40 heading into the 2026 world cup and would later turn 41 this year.

Croatia has relied heavily on his leadership and composure in recent tournaments, including their incredible runs in 2018 and 2022. He continues to lead and guide the Croatian team and is set to make one of the most inspiring late-career appearances in World Cup history. Croatia starts their world cup run taking on England, followed by Ghana and Panama.

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

At the top of this list is the man who completed football. Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup in 2022, fulfilling the one achievement that defined his career. Messi, though 38 now, would turn 39 during the 2026 World Cup. Messi has been open about taking his international career “one tournament at a time.” While he hasn’t confirmed participation, the possibility alone is enough to excite fans worldwide.

Even if his role becomes more limited, his vision, creativity, and influence remain unmatched. If 2026 is his final World Cup, it won’t just be an appearance – it will be the closing chapter of one of the greatest careers in sports history. Argentina is set to kick off their WC campaign facing Algeria, followed by Austria and Jordan.

Read more: Numbers Don’t Lie: How much will Messi and Ronaldo be needed at the 2026 World Cup?

Final Thoughts

Football is always moving forward – but it never forgets its legends. The 2026 World Cup could be a rare moment where multiple icons share the same final stage. Players who defined the last decade may take one last bow, passing the spotlight to the next generation.

Whether they lift the trophy or not, their presence alone adds emotional weight to the tournament. Because sometimes, the biggest story isn’t who wins. It’s who says goodbye.