The 2026 FIFA World Cup will see 48 nations and over 1,000 players compete across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with football’s next generation set to make headlines. Yet, the tournament will also feature a select group of seasoned icons—players aged 40 and above—proving that age is no barrier on the sport’s grandest stage.
Meet the ageless stars set to shine:
Edin Džeko (Bosnia and Herzegovina) — Age: 40
The former Manchester City striker captains his national team with distinction.
Bosnia’s all-time leading scorer (73 goals in 148 caps) arrives after helping Schalke return to the Bundesliga.
Džeko’s leadership could help his youthful squad spring a few surprises.
Manuel Neuer (Germany) — Age: 40
Out of retirement, the Bayern Munich and 2014 World Cup-winning goalkeeper returns for his fifth World Cup.
Fresh off another trophy-laden season, Neuer’s experience will be vital as Germany seeks to bounce back from recent early exits.
Yuto Nagatomo (Japan) — Age: 40
Set to break the Asian record with a fifth World Cup appearance.
The dynamic left-back, now with FC Tokyo, continues to inspire teammates as Japan aim high.
Vozinha (Cape Verde) — Age: 40
The reliable goalkeeper remains a cornerstone for Cape Verde, earning 85 caps.
Making his World Cup debut at 40, Vozinha’s story is one of perseverance and pride for his nation.
Luka Modrić (Croatia) — Age: 41
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner and Croatian captain has led his nation to a final and a third-place World Cup finish.
Now at AC Milan, Modrić’s vision and intelligence remain unmatched as he eyes a fitting finale to his storied career.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) — Age: 41
Football’s ultimate superstar, Ronaldo enters his sixth World Cup as the world’s top international goalscorer (143 goals in 226 games).
The Al-Nassr forward’s leadership could yet produce a fairytale ending to an illustrious career.
Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico) — Age: 41
The legendary goalkeeper will match Ronaldo and Messi with a sixth World Cup appearance.
Ochoa’s heroics, especially in 2014, have cemented his legacy in Mexican football as he prepares for one last campaign on home soil.
Craig Gordon (Scotland) — Age: 44
Scotland’s remarkable shot-stopper could become the second-oldest player in World Cup history.
Gordon’s journey, spanning over two decades, is a testament to resilience and will be a highlight of Scotland’s first World Cup since 1998.
In summary:
The 2026 World Cup is more than a showcase for emerging talent—it’s a celebration of football’s enduring legends. Whether it’s Ronaldo chasing his elusive crown, Modrić dictating the midfield, or Gordon making history at 44, these veterans remind us that passion and experience are timeless assets on the world stage.
