The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to bring together a group of footballers still performing at an advanced age, with several already in their forties. Until now, only former Cameroon attacker Roger Milla has appeared at a World Cup after turning 40, doing so in 1994 and even finding the net during that tournament.
That long-standing benchmark is now set to be equalled, as multiple experienced names are preparing to take part in the upcoming edition. The event will also mark sixth World Cup appearances for both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, highlighting the unusual longevity among this group of players.
Among those expected to feature are well-known figures such as Guillermo Ochoa, Edin Džeko, Craig Gordon, Manuel Neuer, Vozinha, Fernando Muslera, and Luka Modrić, each bringing extensive international experience into the tournament.
Experienced goalkeepers leading their nations
Several goalkeepers in their forties are set to play important roles for their national teams. Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa is included in the co-host squad and could make history by appearing at a record sixth World Cup, having first taken part in 2006.
Scotland’s Craig Gordon, who recently turned 43, is the oldest player selected for the tournament and could become the second-oldest player ever to feature at a World Cup if he plays. Uruguay’s Fernando Muslera, meanwhile, is due to turn 40 during the competition and has already accumulated 134 international appearances, returning to the squad after reversing his international retirement.
Cape Verde’s Vozinha also adds veteran presence, with 81 caps to his name and club experience in Portugal’s second tier, as his nation prepares for its World Cup debut.
Germany’s Manuel Neuer has also returned from international retirement. After stepping away following Euro 2024, he rejoined the national setup following a strong domestic season in which he won a league and cup double.
Outfield legends chasing final glory
Among outfield players, Cristiano Ronaldo stands out as the oldest and will take part in his sixth World Cup. Despite a career filled with international records for appearances and goals, the World Cup title is still missing from his achievements.
Croatia’s Luka Modrić is also set for another major tournament and is expected to surpass 200 international caps during the competition. He remains a central figure for his country and is noted for his performances at club level with AC Milan during the latest season.
Bosnia and Herzegovina captain Edin Džeko continues to lead his national side, holding a record 73 international goals in 148 matches. He arrives at the tournament after contributing goals following a January move to Schalke, where he helped the club achieve Bundesliga promotion.
Records, returns and historic milestones
The upcoming World Cup will also see several record-related storylines unfold, with multiple players set to reach or extend long-standing international achievements. Guillermo Ochoa and Cristiano Ronaldo are both preparing for a sixth appearance at the tournament, placing them among the most experienced participants in World Cup history.
Muslera’s inclusion marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first player from Uruguay to be selected for five World Cup squads after reversing his international retirement. At the same time, Manuel Neuer’s return adds another chapter to his international career after previously stepping away from the national team.
Across the squad lists, the presence of these veteran players underlines how experience continues to shape national team selections, with several countries relying on long-serving figures as they head into the competition.