The brilliant 2022 World Cup is not the last chapter in Lionel Messi's international career. When the tournament in North America kicks off, the captain of the Argentine team will turn 39 but is still the biggest hope of the reigning world champion.
Messi is not the only special case. Cristiano Ronaldo, at the age of 41, also participated in the 2026 World Cup, along with veterans such as Luka Modric, Edin Dzeko, Manuel Neuer, Guillermo Ochoa or Yuto Nagatomo. This is one of the rare World Cups that witnessed so many players over 40 years old.
In previous World Cup history, only 7 players aged 40 and over have ever played. The oldest is goalkeeper Essam El Hadary of Egypt, who started at the age of 45 at the 2018 World Cup and even saved a penalty.
It is not surprising that most of the oldest players in World Cup history are goalkeepers. This special position is less dependent on speed and endurance. However, Roger Milla of Cameroon is an exception when scoring at the age of 42 at the 1994 tournament.
The increasing appearance of older players reflects the changes of modern football. Sports science, nutrition, recovery methods and injury treatment have developed remarkably, helping many players extend their careers for many more years compared to before.
Among the veteran names participating in the 2026 World Cup, Messi is still the most special case. Although no longer playing at the top of Europe, the Argentine superstar still shows great influence at Inter Miami and especially in the national team jersey.
Many opinions suggest that Argentina can rejuvenate the squad and build a playing style that does not depend on Messi. However, reality proves that his decisive passes, breakthrough ability and star quality are still difficult to replace. Even if Julian Alvarez or Rodrigo De Paul have to work harder to support, Argentina is still willing to accept it in exchange for the genius moments that Messi can create.
Ronaldo's case is different. Although still maintaining an admirable physical foundation at the age of 41 and scoring regularly, Ronaldo is no longer a player who can create comprehensive influence like in his prime.
At the 2022 World Cup, Portugal once showed a more energetic face when Ronaldo sat on the bench and Goncalo Ramos was given a chance. The 6-1 victory over Switzerland in the round of 16 is clear proof of that.
Currently, Ronaldo still possesses excellent finishing and aerial ability, but flexibility in movement has decreased significantly. This is what makes many people question whether continuing to build a team around him is really the optimal choice for Portugal.
That is also the biggest paradox of the 2026 World Cup. The presence of legends like Messi or Ronaldo makes the tournament more attractive than ever, but also poses a problem of balancing symbolic values and professional efficiency.
With Messi, many people believe that he is still capable of making a difference at decisive moments. With Ronaldo, the debate seems to be fiercer as Portugal possesses a generation of talents at their peak.
Regardless of the final result, the 2026 World Cup is likely to be the last time fans witness the generation of legends who have dominated world football for nearly two decades appearing on the biggest stage. And that may be the most memorable farewell of an era.
