Euro 2024: From Ronaldo to Kroos, will it be the last time we see these football legends in action?

Updated : Jun 16, 2024 00:27
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Editorji News Desk

The Euro 2024 kicked off on June 14 with a stunning result as hosts Germany triumphed 5-1 over Scotland at Munich's Allianz Arena. The tournament will mark the final appearance for some of football's biggest names. Among them, two legends graced the field for Die Mannschaft. But who else is bidding farewell to the Euros? Let's find out...

Manuel Neuer (38 years - Germany)
Approaching 42 by the next European Championships, Neuer defies the typical lifespan of a goalkeeper. However, it would be a record-breaking achievement for the legendary Bayern Munich and Germany goalkeeper to extend his international career for another edition of the competition.

Toni Kroos (34 years - Germany)
At 34, Kroos has already announced his retirement after a stellar, trophy-laden career, culminating in recent triumphs in La Liga and the Champions League with Real Madrid. The iconic midfielder now aims to bow out with one last major trophy for his country.

Luka Modric (38 years - Croatia)
Another stalwart from Real Madrid's class of 2023-24 who could bid farewell from the international stage is Luka Modric. Since 2006, the 38-year-old has been pulling the strings for Croatia. While he has agreed to a one-year extension at the club level, Euro 2024 could mark his international swansong.

Cristiano Ronaldo (39 years - Portugal)
Next on the list is 2016 winner Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese legend, the only current international with over 200 official caps for his country, will make a record-breaking sixth Euro appearance in 2024. This tournament will surely be the last time we see the iconic 39-year-old attacker.

Pepe (41 years - Portugal)
Ronaldo is known to break records wherever he goes, but one that he might not break is the one that his compatriot holds. Even at 41, Pepe is showing no signs of stopping. The defensive juggernaut will feature in the tournament for the fifth time, becoming the oldest player overall to do so in the tournament.

Kevin De Bruyne (32 years)
The youngest player in this list, Kevin De Bruyne, who turns 33 later this month, could well be featuring in his last Euros. Despite injuries in recent seasons, the Manchester City star has been a key figure for both club and country. However, the five-time Premier League winner might retire from international football before the 2028 edition.

Robert Lewandowski (35 years)
Lastly, Poland's Robert Lewandowski, now 35 and playing for Barcelona, will be eager to end his international career on a high note by guiding his national team beyond the quarterfinals for the first time.

Other notable mentions:

  • Germany
    Ilkay Gundogan (33 years) 
    Thomas Muller (34 years)
  • Spain
    Jesus Navas (38 years)
  • England
    Harry Kane (30 years)
    Kyle Walker (34 years)
  • Netherlands
    Daley Blind (34 years)
    Virgil Van Dijk (32 years)
  • France
    Olivier Giroud (37 years)
    Antoine Griezmann (33 years)
EURO 2024

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