The 2026 World Cup is set to be not only a stage for young, talented footballers from across the globe but also a platform where several seasoned veterans will continue to shine for their national teams.
Many participating nations have already announced their preliminary squads for the 2026 World Cup. FIFA will later confirm the final lists for each country, with the possibility of making changes up to 24 hours before their opening match.
Among the standout names in the announced squads is Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, whose inclusion has drawn immense attention.
The Portugal captain has the chance to make history by appearing in six different editions of the World Cup, alongside Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Croatia’s Luka Modric.
At 41 years old, Ronaldo could join the exclusive group of players aged 41 and above who have ever played in a World Cup match. So far, only four players have achieved this feat: Essam El Hadary, Faryd Mondragon, Roger Milla, and Pat Jennings.
Despite his age, Ronaldo remains a key figure for the Selecao das Quinas. His sharp finishing and leadership in the dressing room have convinced Portugal’s coach to keep him in the squad for the 2026 campaign.
Croatia’s midfield maestro Luka Modric, now 40, is also expected to feature once again. His exceptional vision and vast international experience continue to make him the heartbeat of the Croatian team.
If he plays, it will mark Modric’s sixth World Cup appearance since his debut in Germany in 2006—exactly two decades ago.
German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is another veteran likely to participate in the 2026 tournament at the age of 40. Similarly, Bosnia and Herzegovina striker Edin Dzeko, also aged 40, remains a critical player for his team, having helped them qualify by eliminating Italy in the play-offs.
Japan might also bring along their experienced full-back Yuto Nagatomo, who is currently 39. Should he play, Nagatomo could become the oldest Asian player ever to feature in a World Cup match. The former Inter Milan defender’s inclusion would further solidify his legacy in Japanese football.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will turn 40 before his nation’s opening match. If selected to play, he would join the ranks of the oldest players in World Cup history.
However, the oldest potential participant in the 2026 World Cup is Scotland’s goalkeeper Craig Gordon, now 43. If he takes the field, he would become the second-oldest player in World Cup history, trailing only Egypt’s Essam El Hadary, who played at 45 years and 161 days during the 2018 World Cup.
Interestingly, only seven players aged 40 or older have ever played in a World Cup match throughout the tournament’s 96-year history. That number could rise significantly in 2026, marking a unique era for veteran footballers.
The presence of these experienced players highlights how leadership, tactical intelligence, and composure remain invaluable assets at the highest level of world football. Indeed, the 2026 edition could well be remembered as the World Cup of football veterans.
As captain, Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal’s quest for glory at the 2026 World Cup. Portugal have been drawn in Group K, where they will face DR Congo on June 18, Uzbekistan on June 24, and Colombia on June 28.
Fans from around the world, including Indonesia, have expressed their support for Portugal. Syahrul Fauzi, President of Pena Real Madrid de Indonesia (PRMI), stated that he is backing Portugal to win the World Cup over other favourites.
“I’m rooting for Portugal. Even though I’m a Real Madrid supporter and a fan of Lionel Messi, when it comes to national teams, I choose Portugal,” Syahrul said.
Similarly, PSM Makassar midfielder Muhammad Arfan is eagerly awaiting Ronaldo’s performance in the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Arfan believes Portugal have the right mix of experience and quality to compete for the world title. “Portugal, because they have experienced and quality players,” he said.
He also emphasised that Ronaldo remains a key figure in the Portuguese squad despite his age. “The key player is definitely Ronaldo,” added the PSM Makassar vice-captain.
Arfan is optimistic that Portugal can capture their first-ever World Cup title, giving Ronaldo the perfect “last dance” on the global stage. “I’m confident Portugal will win their first World Cup this year,” he concluded.
(Tio/Isna – Tribunnews.com; Kaswadi Anwar – TribunTimur)
