Legends Who Retired After the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup saw some football legends retire after the tournament. Six big names ended their international careers, leaving behind a rich history.

FIFA's website shared the news on Thursday. Manuel Neuer, Neymar, Riyad Mahrez, Guillermo Ochoa, Patrik Schick, and Didier Deschamps all said goodbye to international football after years of serving their countries.

These players have left a mark with their World Cup appearances, major trophies, and unforgettable moments that shaped their nations' football stories.

Manuel Neuer, Germany

Manuel Neuer retired as one of the best goalkeepers in football history. He changed how goalkeeping is played.

Neuer made his international debut in 2009. He became famous for his role as a “sweeper-keeper,” mixing traditional skills with great ball control.

He played a big part in Germany’s 2014 World Cup win in Brazil, winning the Golden Glove award for the best goalkeeper. After returning for the 2026 World Cup, Neuer ended his international career with 128 caps, five World Cups, and over 17 years of service.

Neymar, Brazil

Neymar finished his Brazil career as the top goalscorer in the country’s history. He is one of Brazil's greatest attackers.

Neymar debuted for the national team in 2010 at just 18 years old. He scored in his first game against the United States.

During his time with Brazil, Neymar helped win the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games by scoring the winning penalty against Germany. But the World Cup trophy was not in his reach. After Brazil lost in the Round of 16 at the 2026 tournament, Neymar announced his retirement. He ended with 130 caps and 80 goals.

Riyad Mahrez, Algeria

Riyad Mahrez became a symbol of Algeria’s golden generation and one of its top attackers.

He made his debut in 2014 and helped Algeria reach the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time. His biggest moment came in 2019 when he led Algeria to win the Africa Cup of Nations. His incredible free-kick goal against Nigeria in the semi-final is still remembered.

Before the 2026 World Cup, Mahrez announced it would be his last tournament. He confirmed his retirement after Algeria's loss to Switzerland.

Guillermo Ochoa, Mexico

Guillermo Ochoa is one of Mexico’s best World Cup players, showing up in six straight tournaments.

He debuted for Mexico in 2005 and became known for his amazing performances on the biggest stages.

Ochoa had standout games against Brazil in 2014, Germany in 2018, and Poland in 2022, where he saved a penalty from Robert Lewandowski. The 2026 World Cup held in Mexico marked the end of his 20-year international career, and fans gave him a warm farewell.

Patrik Schick, Czech Republic

Patrik Schick retired from international football after ten years with the Czech Republic.

He became a star during Euro 2020, scoring a fantastic long-range goal against Scotland, which won the best goal award. Schick debuted in 2016 and ended his career after the Czech Republic's exit from the 2026 World Cup.

He is remembered as one of the most talented forwards from his country.

Didier Deschamps, France

Didier Deschamps finished a historic 14-year run as the coach of France after the 2026 World Cup.

As a player, he won the World Cup in 1998. He is one of only three people to win the tournament both as a player and a coach.

Since taking over in 2012, he led France to the Euro 2016 final, the 2018 World Cup title, the 2021 UEFA Nations League win, and another World Cup final in 2022. The third-place match against England in 2026 was his last as coach, closing an extraordinary chapter in French football.

The retirements of Neuer, Neymar, Mahrez, Ochoa, Schick, and Deschamps mark the end of a significant era that gave us many unforgettable moments in international football.