The Euro 2024 tournament showcased the enduring talent of Cristiano Ronaldo, who despite his age and slowing pace, remains a crucial figure in the Portugal national team. While Ronaldo has hinted that Euro 2024 might be his final international tournament, the prospect of him playing at the 2026 World Cup remains high. His leadership and goal-scoring abilities make him a valuable asset, and his recent success in the Saudi Pro League demonstrates that age is just a number for the legendary forward. With a strong determination to continue playing at the highest level, Ronaldo’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup are promising.
On the other hand, Euro 2024 revealed some challenges for England’s star striker Harry Kane. Despite his impressive goal-scoring record at Bayern Munich, Kane’s performance in the tournament raised questions about his form and effectiveness on the pitch. His tendency to drop deep and lack of pace were highlighted as potential issues that could affect his chances of playing at the 2026 World Cup. With a new manager on the horizon for England, Kane may need to adapt his playing style to secure a spot in the team for the upcoming World Cup.
Poland’s Robert Lewandowski emerged as a key player for his national team at Euro 2024, despite their early exit from the tournament. Lewandowski’s commitment to continuing his international career bodes well for his prospects at the 2026 World Cup. As a seasoned veteran with a remarkable goal-scoring record, Lewandowski’s experience and skill make him a valuable asset for Poland. With his contract at Barcelona ensuring that he remains at a high level of competition, Lewandowski’s chances of playing in the next World Cup are promising.
The Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne faced criticism during Euro 2024, as his team struggled to make an impact in the tournament. With uncertainties surrounding his club future and his readiness to continue playing at the highest level, De Bruyne’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup are uncertain. As a key figure in Belgium’s national team, De Bruyne’s decision to prolong his career and commitment to international duty will play a significant role in determining his chances of playing in the next World Cup.
Despite his age, Croatia’s Luka Modric continues to defy expectations and deliver standout performances for his national team. Modric’s resilience and skill on the field make him a valuable asset for Croatia, and his determination to continue playing beyond Euro 2024 points towards his prospects for the 2026 World Cup. As the oldest scorer at a Euros, Modric’s experience and leadership qualities position him as a key player for Croatia in the upcoming World Cup.
Denmark’s Christian Eriksen has overcome significant challenges, including a life-threatening incident on the field, to return to top-level football. Eriksen’s strong showing at Euro 2024 and his continued presence in the international arena indicate his desire to compete at the highest level. Eriksen’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup depend on his ability to secure the right club move and maintain his form and fitness. With the potential to continue representing Denmark, Eriksen’s determination and skill make him a contender for the upcoming World Cup.
Netherlands’ Virgil Van Dijk, despite his advancing age, remains a formidable presence in the Dutch national team. Van Dijk’s defensive prowess and football intelligence set him apart as a key player for his team. With uncertainties surrounding his club future and the managerial landscape for the Dutch team, Van Dijk’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup remain promising. As a seasoned defender with a wealth of experience, Van Dijk’s contribution to the Netherlands’ defense could be crucial in the upcoming World Cup.
Portugal’s Pepe continues to defy age barriers and deliver strong performances for his national team. As one of the oldest outfield players in European competition, Pepe’s durability and experience make him a valuable asset for Portugal. With a significant chance of playing in the 2026 World Cup, Pepe’s genetic attributes and importance to the team position him as a key player for Portugal in the upcoming tournament.
Lionel Messi’s continued presence in the Argentina national team opens up the possibility of him playing in the 2026 World Cup. With a revitalized career at Inter Miami CF and a strong desire to extend his international playing days, Messi could be targeting the upcoming World Cup as the ultimate swansong to his illustrious career. The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo also adds an intriguing dynamic to the prospect of Messi competing at the 2026 World Cup.