Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo return for last World Cup, plus other top stars to watch

The 2026 World Cup is shaping up as a final stage for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the two players who have defined men’s soccer for much of the past two decades. According to the Wall Street Journal, Messi, now 38, will appear at a record-setting sixth World Cup as Argentina tries to defend the title they won in Qatar; additionally, Ronaldo, 41, will also make a sixth appearance for Portugal.

Ronaldo told CNN last year, “Definitely, yes,” when asked whether the 2026 tournament would be his last, adding, “Because I will be 41 years old,” per the Wall Street Journal. The report states that Messi and Ronaldo have never faced each other at a World Cup, even though their careers have long unfolded side by side.

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Rising names to watch in 2026

Al Jazeera highlighted Vinicius Jr. of Brazil as one of the tournament’s top draws. The outlet said the winger has grown from a newcomer at the 2022 World Cup into one of the game’s biggest stars, with pace, dribbling and technique that should anchor Brazil’s attack.

The list of players to watch also includes emerging and established talents beyond the well-known soccer icons. Al Jazeera ranked several of the tournament’s top players, including Kylian Mbappe of France, Lamine Yamal of Spain, and Harry Kane of England, underscoring the depth of star power expected across the field.

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Messi remains central to Argentina’s title defense, though age and fitness may limit his minutes. Ronaldo, now playing for Portugal under coach Roberto Martinez, will have more opportunities than he did in Qatar, when his role was reduced, per Al Jazeera.

The tournament could still deliver a long-awaited showdown. If Argentina and Portugal advance through their groups, the bracket could put Messi and Ronaldo on a collision course in the quarterfinals in Kansas City.