Manuel Neuer (Germany, 40)
Neuer first displayed his remarkable abilities on the grand stage of the World Cup in 2010, later securing the championship in 2014. Germany has since faced challenges in replicating that triumph, culminating in a penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay that signaled Neuer’s departure from international play. Although he had intended to retire after Euro 2024, Neuer changed his mind just before the tournament began. “Despite the bitter end, I don’t regret this decision,” he stated after his last World Cup appearance. Former Germany defender Robert Huth criticized Neuer’s return, commenting, “I think the big one that really unsettles the squad was the Neuer inclusion. I think [it was] really unexpected, he came late to the table.”
Patrik Schick (Czechia, 30)
After a standout performance at Euro 2020, Schick made his World Cup debut this summer. Unfortunately, he did not score as Czechia exited the tournament in the group stage without a single victory. Just hours after the final match, he announced his retirement from international duties, saying, “Today, my national team chapter is coming to an end,” The Czech football federation released a statement honoring his contributions: “Thank you for every match, every goal, and the pride with which you represented the Czech Republic.”
Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico, 41)
Ochoa captured the hearts of fans in 2014 with his exceptional performances, notably achieving a memorable clean sheet against Brazil. Although his playing time this summer was limited to just 12 minutes against Czechia, he received a warm embrace from his teammates. Following the match, manager Javier Aguirre expressed his admiration, stating, “The moment he stepped on to the pitch, it overshadowed everything else. He is a world-class legend, and I am incredibly proud of him.” Ochoa later reflected, “It was the greatest privilege of my life. Thank you for believing, for always accompanying us. I love you Mexico.”
Riyad Mahrez, who had waited 12 years for another opportunity to shine, netted two goals against Austria before Algeria was eliminated in the last 32 by Switzerland. He expressed his gratitude, sharing, “Representing Algeria has been a dream of mine ever since I was young, to play for my country. It’s been an immense honour and a great source of pride.” The Confederation of African Football acknowledged his impact, stating: “You gave us memories that time can never take away. Thank you, Riyad Mahrez.”
Enner Valencia, Ecuador’s all-time leading scorer, managed to net six goals across the 2014 and 2022 World Cups but could not add to his tally in his final match against Mexico, which ended in a loss. After the match, he declared, “I’ve played my last match with the national team,” and Ecuador’s official account praised him as “The GOAT. Super Enner. Thank you for giving yourself to the country and representing it in the best way.”
Nicolás Otamendi (Argentina, 38)
The resolute defender played a significant role in Argentina’s success in Qatar, having made his World Cup debut back in 2010. Although his playing time in North America was limited, he participated in all but one match, announcing his decision to retire earlier this year. “It’s my last World Cup, from there I’ll be a fan,” he affirmed. His final home game became a poignant tribute, with Lionel Messi allowing him to take a penalty kick at La Bombonera.
Marko Arnautovic (Austria, 37)
This tournament represented both Arnautovic’s debut and conclusion in World Cup competition, where he scored twice as Austria reached the last 32, ultimately succumbing to a 3–0 defeat against Spain. In a touching post-match interview, he shared, “Playing for Austria was the biggest highlight. It hits me that from now on I won’t see my second family any more.” The Austrian Football Association celebrated his career with a statement: “What a career. What a character. Thank you for everything.”
After Senegal’s disappointing exit against Belgium, Sadio Mané declared his retirement through Senegalese media, although there were questions regarding the authenticity of the statement. He remarked, “Know that I sacrificed everything for this flag. I gave the very best of myself and I always fought fiercely for our homeland.” Pape Thiaw commented on Mané’s potential retirement, noting, “We want to keep him as long as possible … when we say it’s his decision, it doesn’t just belong to him, he belongs to the people of Senegal, and they want to see him carry on.”
Craig Gordon (Scotland, 43)
The seasoned goalkeeper earned 84 caps since his debut in 2004, although he did not see any action during his first World Cup. Gordon expressed mixed feelings as he announced his retirement from both club and international football, stating, “I’ve never wanted it to end, but it must,” The Scotland national team’s social media account characterized his career as “a career unlike any other”
Jean Michaël Seri (Côte d’Ivoire, 35)
Seri made his World Cup debut during a 2–0 victory over Curaçao, marking his 64th cap. He subsequently took to social media to announce, “After 11 years in the national team, and one World Cup played, I announce the end of my international career today.” Numerous tributes poured in, with captain Franck Kessié responding, “Congratulations on all that you’ve accomplished with the national team,”
Neymar (Brazil, 34)
Neymar burst onto the World Cup scene in 2014, scoring twice during his debut. However, injuries limited his participation this time around, as he played only 55 minutes before Brazil’s exit against Norway. Shortly after the match, he confirmed his retirement from international football, stating, “Thank you for all these moments shared under our colors.” referencing his debut against the US in August 2010, “It started here at MetLife Stadium,” Zlatan Ibrahimovic, serving as a pundit for US television, remarked, “and I finished here. It is now over.”
