As the eyes of the soccer world turn to the United States for the largest-ever edition of the FIFA Club World Cup, there’s an unspoken tension in the air—one that goes beyond the pursuit of silverware. For some of the sport’s most enduring legends, this expanded tournament marks not just the end of a season, but the twilight of an era.
Fans may come expecting goals, drama, and international rivalries, but they’ll also witness something far more sentimental: the last dance of players who helped define the modern game. Many of them will play their final matches for their clubs—or perhaps their final matches altogether—during this historic competition.
Final farewell: Veterans set to bow out
Among the emotional farewells is Luka Modric, who has already received his Santiago Bernabeu send-off. Though his last league appearance is behind him, he remains in Real Madrid’s squad for the Club World Cup, seeking a sixth title in this competition before a likely move to Milan.
Thomas Muller is experiencing a similar departure. After 25 years and almost 800 matches with Bayern Munich, the German icon will end his one-club legacy following this tournament. His farewell is underscored by the announcement that his contract will not be renewed, ending a decorated career that includes 13 Bundesliga titles, two Champions Leagues, and two Club World Cups.
Another name quietly heading for the exit is Lucas Vazquez, who played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s 2024–25 campaign with 51 appearances. With no contract extension in place, his future is uncertain, but his impact—especially in Dani Carvajal’s absence—won’t be forgotten.
Then there’s Angel Di Maria, whose return to Benfica in 2023 has come full circle. The 37-year-old has already confirmed he will join Rosario Central after the tournament, bringing his European chapter to a close in the same country where it began.
Stars still shining bright
And then come the superstars who continue to inspire awe—not for how long they’ve lasted, but for how much they’re still delivering.
Lionel Messi, the centerpiece of Inter Miami’s controversial Club World Cup entry, remains a marvel. With 73 goal contributions in just 59 games, he’s showing no signs of slowing down. Though his contract expires after the tournament, reports suggest he could sign a new one-year deal. “The Messi factor” played a clear role in FIFA awarding Miami the final CONCACAF slot.
Messi’s teammate, Luis Suarez, now 38, is also nearing the end. With 29 goals in 51 games since joining Inter Miami in 2024, the Uruguayan continues to prove he’s one of the game’s deadliest finishers.
Edinson Cavani will lead Boca Juniors into battle, still a prolific scorer at 37. With 20 goals last season, he remains a danger and will face off against old foes like Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane.
Another South American legend, Thiago Silva, will marshal Fluminense’s defense at age 40. His return to Brazil in 2024 helped pull the club out of relegation danger, and now he leads their charge on the world stage.
Sergio Ramos, now donning Monterrey’s shirt, is aiming to win a fifth Club World Cup trophy after already scoring four goals in just nine matches since joining the Mexican side. The 39-year-old continues to defy time—and rack up red cards, having just added the 30th to his collection.
With names like Sergio Busquets also likely playing possibly their final tournament for Inter Miami, this Club World Cup is more than a soccer tournament—it’s a global farewell tour. Busquets, who won everything with Barcelona, has not yet signed a new deal and may leave MLS after this summer.
