Football Legends Hang Up International Boots Post-2026 World Cup: Messi, Neymar, Mahrez Top List

The curtain has fallen on the international careers of several prominent football figures following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A host of seasoned players, including World Cup champions and long-serving national team captains, have decided to step away from international competition. These departures span continents, with stars from Europe, Africa, and South America making the list. Here, NaijaPodNews highlights ten notable players who have formally announced their exit from international football after the global tournament.

1. **Lionel Messi — Argentina:** Argentina's iconic captain, Lionel Messi, confirmed his retirement from international football after his side reached the final of the 2026 World Cup. The 39-year-old maestro leaves a monumental legacy, holding the records for most appearances (207 caps) and leading goalscorer (125 goals) for Argentina. FIFA has indicated that Messi is slated to make a final farewell appearance for his country against Benin in Buenos Aires on October 6.

2. **Neymar — Brazil:** Brazilian sensation Neymar also concluded his international journey after the World Cup. The forward, who first represented Brazil in 2010, participated in four World Cup tournaments. Following Brazil's elimination from the competition, Neymar officially announced the end of his time with the national squad.

3. **James Rodríguez — Colombia:** Colombia's captain, James Rodríguez, declared his international retirement on September 15, 2026. The 35-year-old featured in three World Cups and departs as Colombia's all-time leader in both appearances (131) and assists (43). He also holds the distinction of being Colombia's top scorer at the World Cup, with six goals.

4. **Manuel Neuer — Germany:** Germany's veteran goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, ended his international career after the 2026 World Cup. The 40-year-old had previously retired after Euro 2024 but made a comeback for the World Cup. His illustrious career with Germany included their triumphant 2014 World Cup campaign.

5. **Guillermo Ochoa — Mexico:** Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa likewise concluded his international duties after the tournament. Ochoa rose to become one of Mexico's most recognizable footballers, featuring in multiple World Cups. He made a brief appearance during Mexico's 2026 run and received a heartfelt send-off from his teammates and fans.

6. **Riyad Mahrez — Algeria:** Former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez retired from international football after Algeria was knocked out of the 2026 World Cup. Mahrez, who made his World Cup debut in 2014, netted two goals in the 2026 tournament before Algeria's elimination by Switzerland.

7. **Édouard Mendy — Senegal:** Senegal's goalkeeper, Édouard Mendy, announced his international retirement in September. The 34-year-old completed his Senegal career with 59 appearances and was a key member of the squad that clinched the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations title.

8. **Iñaki Williams — Ghana:** Ghanaian forward Iñaki Williams declared his international retirement following Ghana's defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32. Williams concludes his four-year international tenure with 28 caps for the Black Stars.

9. **Edin Džeko — Bosnia and Herzegovina:** Bosnia and Herzegovina captain Edin Džeko announced on September 3, 2026, his decision to retire from international football. The 40-year-old is scheduled to play his final match for his nation against Sweden on October 2 in the UEFA Nations League. Džeko has been a pivotal figure in Bosnia and Herzegovina's football history, holding records as the country's leading goalscorer and appearance-maker.

10. **Seko Fofana — Côte d’Ivoire:** Côte d’Ivoire midfielder Seko Fofana announced his retirement from international football on September 14, 2026, at the age of 31. Fofana earned 34 caps and scored seven goals for the Elephants. He was also part of the Ivorian squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy on home soil in 2024.