A wave of international retirements has followed the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several high-profile players, including Lionel Messi and Neymar, ending their national team careers.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi, 39, announced his retirement after guiding his side to the final. The all-time leading appearance-maker and goalscorer for Argentina, with 207 caps and 125 goals, is scheduled to make a farewell appearance against Benin in Buenos Aires on October 6.
Brazilian forward Neymar also confirmed the end of his international career following Brazil’s elimination. The player, who debuted for the national team in 2010, featured at four World Cups.
Colombia captain James Rodríguez, 35, announced his retirement on September 15. He leaves as Colombia’s record appearance-maker with 131 caps and all-time assists leader with 43, as well as the country’s top World Cup scorer with six goals.
Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, ended his international career after the tournament. He had previously stepped away after Euro 2024 but returned for the World Cup, having been part of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad.
Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa, Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy, Ghana’s Iñaki Williams, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Edin Džeko and Côte d’Ivoire’s Seko Fofana also announced their international retirements in the weeks following the competition.
Džeko, 40, is set to play his final match for Bosnia and Herzegovina against Sweden on October 2 in the UEFA Nations League.
