TThey say time spares no one, but in the world of football, memories are forever, and its stars are no exception. There are less than 70 days until the start of the 2026 World Cup, and as the opening ceremony approaches, expectations for the tournament are increasing. But so too is the nostalgia and sadness brought about by the possibility of parting ways with several players.
The stars who have defined the past 20 years will not only be participating one more time, but this could be their last tournament.
2026 World Cup: Legends’ Last Dance
In recent years, numerous players have appeared in matches, won awards, won the love of fans and established themselves as undisputed icons of football and the national team.
But all signs point to the inaugural 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams and be held in three countries (Mexico, Canada and the United States), to be a transitional tournament as these legends look to write a new final chapter in their careers.
Not only will the Liverpool forward be away for the season, but he could also be out of the short World Cup trip. His only experience was in 2018, when Egypt returned to the tournament for the first time in 28 years. The 33-year-old star now faces his second and final chance at glory.
His time with the Croatian national team is already etched in gold. The midfielder, who finished runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022, defied all logic and became the driving force that propelled the team into the ranks of the world’s powerhouses. His talent and leadership keep him among the elite, but by 2026 he will be 40 years old and all signs point to this being the ideal stage for his final World Cup dance.
Son Heung-min (Korea)
The 33-year-old South Korean captain will lead the team in what will likely be his fourth and final World Cup, having produced memorable moments in his past three appearances, including the 2018 victory over Germany. Son, who is eligible to play in June 2025, could end his World Cup career in North America.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
The Portuguese star announced a while ago that this would be his last World Cup. He will thus bid farewell to the competition as the first player in the competition’s history to make six appearances, and if he scores he will become the first player to play in so many competitions. But beyond his personal record, this will be his last chance to win the trophy he’s been chasing since 2006.
He has not yet officially announced his participation, but if he does, he will join CR7 as one of only two players to have participated in six World Cups. Leo has played the most games (26) and scored 13 goals, putting him three behind the all-time top scorer Miroslav Klose. Furthermore, Messi will go into the tournament with a mission to defend the title he won when he made history against France in Qatar in 2022.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
Since joining in 2014, his name has stood out among Belgium’s golden generation. The 34-year-old midfielder, who achieved a historic third-place finish at Russia 2018 during Belgium’s transition period following the 2022 Qatar cycle, is one of the great icons who has stood the test of time. Although his talent remains intact, the 2026 FIFA World Cup could spell a definitive end to his career.
Since 2014, the Canarinha icon has carried the weight of being the team’s leader. However, he injured his knee on October 17, 2023 and has not played for the national team since. Ney could play in his final World Cup if he is 100% fit and manager Carlo Ancelotti decides to include him in his squad.
Some have already tasted glory, while others are still chasing that elusive title, but they all share the same goal of being at the top. Because if soccer has taught us anything, it’s that great players don’t go down without a fight, and in 2026 the world may witness the final dance of a 21st century giant.
