Unfortunately, however, the World Cup often heralds an era’s end and Qatar 2022 will be no different, with several aging stars likely making their final appearance at the world’s most watched sporting event.
The last 20 years of football have been something of a golden era for the sport. Fans have been blessed with the opportunity to watch the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of the greatest players of all time, play in some of the strongest teams of all time.
All good things must come to an end, though, as Qatar 2022 will likely be these two legend’s final attempt at football’s ultimate prize. When the 2026 World Cup rolls around, Messi and Ronaldo will be 39 and 41 years old, respectively, and likely will not be up to the level of play demanded by such a tournament. While both players have had continental success, neither has quite managed to finish the at the World Cup, but with Argentina entering this competition as favourites that may be set to change.
A swath of other legends are also set to make their final World Cup appearances this winter. Brazil’s Thiago Silva recently turned 38, and, despite remaining one of the top performing centre backs in the Premier League, his career looks to be winding down. The same can be said for full-back Dani Alves, who celebrated his 39th birthday back in May. Brazil haven’t won the World Cup since the 2002 World Cup in Japan, and the two will be looking to end their international careers on a high.
The same can be said for Alfredo Talavera, the tournaments oldest player at 40 years old. The Mexico and FC Juárez keeper has hero status in Mexico, making just shy of 500 appearances in his career across four Liga MX teams. While he is unlikely to make many appearances at this World Cup, his experience and status will be invaluable to the team.
Qatar 2022 will also likely be a curtain call for Portugal’s Pepe and Brazil’s Dani Alves, two legendary La Liga defenders who recently hit 39 years of age.
This will also be Luka Modric’s final attempt at the World Cup. After finishing second in Russia in 2018, he Ballon d’Or winner will be looking to add one last golden trophy to his cabinet before hanging up his boots.