Recapping 10 stars who might participate in their final World Cup in 2026

The 2026 World Cup might mark the final appearance for numerous legends on football’s grandest platform. With age increasingly becoming an obstacle, stars such as Messi, Ronaldo, and Modrić step into the competition eager to close their careers with a memorable mark.

The World Cup is always the birthplace of legends, but also the stage for farewells. As time moves toward 2026, many stars who have dominated world football for over a decade are approaching the final chapter of their journey at the planet’s biggest football festival.

Some have tasted the pinnacle of glory, while others still carry unfinished dreams in their hearts. Their common trait is an unforgettable impact that fans find hard to forget. Every run, every goal in the upcoming World Cup could be the last moment the world sees them in their national colors.

The list below gathers prominent names likely to say goodbye to the World Cup after 2026 – icons who have defined, are defining, and will continue to define an era of football.

10. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)

Kevin De Bruyne has been synonymous with Belgium’s most brilliant football era. He is the centerpiece of the “golden generation,” which includes many talents who conquered Europe at club level. His composure, tactical vision, and exceptional passing ability have always made him a decisive figure.

The 2018 World Cup was a peak when Belgium finished third. De Bruyne scored a crucial goal against Brazil and created countless opportunities for teammates. He was not only a playmaker but also shone at critical moments.

However, every successful cycle eventually ends. Belgium’s group stage exit in 2022 showed the squad’s prime has passed. As he moves beyond 30, the North American tournament might be De Bruyne’s last chance to seek an iconic achievement — a perfect farewell to his World Cup career.

9. Sadio Mané (Senegal)

Sadio Mané has long transcended being just a player; he is the hope of the Senegalese people. His speed, breakthrough ability, and fighting spirit have made him a leader during Senegal’s rise in football.

In 2018, Senegal fought hard but was eliminated bitterly due to fair play points. Mané did everything possible, but fate was unkind.

By 2022, when the team was highly anticipated, injury prevented his participation. Therefore, if he remains fit for 2026, it will be his final opportunity to complete his story instead of leaving chapters unfinished.

8. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Few have had as long and emotional a World Cup journey as Messi. From the golden boy expected to succeed Diego Maradona to the captain lifting the golden trophy, he has completed a historic circle.

Messi holds the record for most appearances, countless goals, and iconic moments. Qatar 2022 was special as he scored in every knockout round, showcasing the spirit of a true legend.

Having reached the pinnacle, if he competes in 2026, that tournament will feel like a final tour for fans worldwide to bid farewell.

7. Luka Modrić (Croatia)

Modrić proves that greatness doesn’t depend on a country’s size or power. He leads Croatia with the grace of an artist—both smooth and fiercely competitive.

The 2018 final run was his personal peak. Remarkably, by 2022, he remained the core, continuing to guide this small nation into the elite group.

Time, of course, moves on. The 2026 World Cup could be the last stage for the world to admire the elegant strides of this legendary midfielder.

6. Neymar (Brazil)

Neymar’s World Cup career has always been accompanied by enormous expectations. He was once seen as the man to bring Brazil back to its golden era, but misfortune and injuries repeatedly disrupted the dream.

Images of Neymar leaving the field on a stretcher in 2014 or crying after the 2022 defeat remain haunting. Nevertheless, his talent is undeniable.

If physically able to appear in 2026, it will be Neymar’s final effort to fulfill his promise to his home fans.

5. James Rodríguez (Colombia)

James amazed the world in just a few weeks during the summer of 2014. His exquisite skills and spontaneous shots made him Colombia’s brightest star.

However, that peak came and went quickly. What followed were turbulent seasons, multiple transfers, and a diminishing role.

Thus, the 2026 World Cup — if he manages to return — will be a chance to redeem the glorious past.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Cristiano Ronaldo enters every tournament with a fierce desire to conquer. He has scored in five different World Cups — an astonishing display of longevity.

Moments like his 2018 hat-trick against Spain have become part of his legacy. Although he hasn’t won the title, Ronaldo remains the center of attention.

If he participates in 2026, he could break another seemingly impossible record, further cementing his place in history.

3. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

For Egypt, Salah is not just a star but a symbol of hope. He carries the expectations of a football nation eager to make its mark globally.

The 2018 World Cup brought disappointment as the team couldn’t advance far. Salah gave his all, but the gap in quality was evident.

If given another chance on the World Cup stage, he will surely want to leave an even greater legacy.

2. Son Heung-min (South Korea)

Son represents the progress of Asian football. From a young player in 2014, he has grown into the true leader of his national team.

His goal against Germany in 2018 and brave performances in 2022 highlight Son’s immense influence beyond mere skills.

Time waits for no one, and 2026 will likely be the final chapter of his World Cup journey.

1. Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands)

Van Dijk arrived just when the Netherlands needed a leader for rebuilding. He brought stability, calmness, and fighting spirit to the team.

In Qatar, this center-back was the defensive anchor, helping the Netherlands reach deep into the tournament. Even though they fell to Argentina, he left the image of an exemplary captain.

With age advancing, the 2026 World Cup might be Van Dijk’s last chance to achieve the championship dream that Dutch football still pursues.

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