What a final farewell it was for these footballing legends as they bid adieu to the World Cup stage! In a dramatic conclusion to their illustrious careers, a host of A-list stars hung up their national team boots after the 2026 World Cup. Among them were some of the most recognisable names in the game – Manuel Neuer, Nicolás Otamendi, Guillermo Ochoa, and more.
Neuer's journey to this tournament was as rollercoaster-esque as it gets! The 40-year-old German keeper had initially called time on his international career after Euro 2024 but then dramatically reversed that decision just weeks before the World Cup. Despite Germany's penalty shootout heartbreak against Paraguay, which marked the end of his international journey, Neuer insisted he had no regrets. His U-turn sparked debate back home, with former defender Robert Huth suggesting it 'unsettled the squad'.
Argentina's enforcer Nicolás Otamendi, 38, played his last World Cup after a storied career that included lifting the trophy in Qatar two years ago. Although he didn't feature as prominently this time around, Otamendi still made all but one appearance – and what an emotional ride it was! He'd revealed his intention to retire from international football back in March, with his final home match for Argentina becoming a poignant tribute, especially with Lionel Messi scoring the winning penalty.
Other notable names waving goodbye include Mexico's beloved goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, 41, who earned a hero's welcome during his 12-minute cameo against Czechia. Algeria's talisman Riyad Mahrez, 35, scored two crucial goals in his final tournament appearance before Algeria's heartbreaking elimination by Switzerland – an honour he cherished deeply. Ecuador's record scorer Enner Valencia, 36, also confirmed his retirement after their last 32 exit.
For some, this World Cup marked both a debut and a swansong – what a bittersweet feeling! Czechia's Patrik Schick, 30, made his World Cup debut only to announce his international retirement just hours after his country's group stage elimination. Similarly, Austria's Marko Arnautovic, 37, scored twice in his first and last World Cup before an emotional post-match interview sealed his departure from the international scene. Senegal's Sadio Mané, 34, also appears to have concluded his international career following Senegal's defeat to Belgium – but details surrounding his statement are still emerging.