Euro 2024, Champions League, and World Cup Preparations
The 2024 European Championship has showcased a new generation of football talent, with stars like Spain’s Lamine Yamal (16), England’s Kobbie Mainoo (19), and Germany’s Jamal Musiala (21) offering a glimpse of the future. While these young prodigies are making their mark, football’s veteran superstars have also grabbed headlines, raising questions about their longevity ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal, age 39) has made it clear that Euro 2024 will be his last European Championship, but the door remains open for a final World Cup appearance at the age of 41. Harry Kane (England, age 30) has faced growing concerns about his performances, with a potential change in England’s management potentially impacting his international future. Robert Lewandowski (Poland, age 35) is determined to continue representing his country, provided they qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
“The end of the ‘golden generation’ is evident, with Kevin De Bruyne (age 33) potentially considering a move to the Saudi Pro League and hinting at winding down his illustrious career.”
Meanwhile, the ageless Luka Modric (Croatia, age 38) and Christian Eriksen (Denmark, age 32) will be eager to make one last push for World Cup glory. Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands, age 32) aims to lead the Dutch defense at the 2026 World Cup, while the evergreen Pepe (Portugal, age 41) continues to defy Father Time. And the ultimate footballing icon, Lionel Messi (Argentina, age 37), could be tempted to extend his international career and go for a fairytale ending at the 2026 World Cup, potentially renewing his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo.
As the football world prepares for the upcoming UEFA Champions League, African Cup of Nations, and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the question remains: which of these veteran superstars will make it to the next global showpiece event, and who will be forced to hang up their boots?
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