The 2026 FIFA World Cup will almost certainly be a turning point for Portugal’s national team. While many of Portugal’s core stars are still in their early 30s and likely to continue, a handful of long-serving veterans are expected to step away from international football once the tournament ends — and a few senior Portugal Players have already called time before 2026.
Many legendary football players are set to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a player from the 2025 UEFA Nations League champion team.
Cristiano Ronaldo is Likely to Retire from International Football after the 2026 World Cup. Below, we list Portugal players who are confirmed or very likely to retire, those who might choose to retire after 2026 FIFA World Cup, and recent retirees, along with brief reasons and sources.
Top Portugal Players Expected to Retire After 2026 FIFA World Cup
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The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be a watershed moment for Portugal — a farewell tour for one of football’s all-time greats and the start of a fresh generation taking the reins.
For ongoing coverage, squad updates and official retirement announcements, keep an eye on Portugal’s federation releases and major sports outlets.
Quick summary
- Confirmed / very likely: Cristiano Ronaldo — has publicly signalled that the 2026 World Cup will be his final major international tournament.
- Possible retirements after 2026 (watch list): Raphaël Guerreiro, João Cancelo — veteran international profiles who will be in their early-to-mid 30s in 2026 and may decide to step back depending on form and squad direction.
- Already retired (before 2026): Pepe (announced retirement in 2024) and Rui Patrício (announced retirement in Dec 2025).
Cristiano Ronaldo — Forward (born 5 Feb 1985)
Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly stated the 2026 World Cup will be his last major international tournament, and he has talked about retiring from international football around that time (and possibly retiring from club football within a year or two thereafter).
Given his age (he will be 41 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup) and his own comments, Ronaldo’s departure from the Portugal team after 2026 is widely expected and would mark the end of an era for Portuguese football.
Likely candidates who could retire after 2026 FIFA World Cup
These players haven’t announced plans to stop, but their age, recent club situation and international workload make them plausible candidates to step away after the World Cup.
Raphaël Guerreiro — Left-back / Midfielder (born 22 Dec 1993)
Guerreiro will be 32 in 2026. He remains a versatile option for Portugal (and was active at club level with Bayern Munich). Still, if his club minutes drop or Portugal’s coach opts to refresh the left side, Guerreiro could choose to prioritise club football or family life after 2026.
João Cancelo — Full-back (born 27 May 1994)
Cancelo will be 32 in 2026. A high-profile full-back who has alternated between club moves and competing for starting spots, Cancelo might reassess his international future after another World Cup cycle depending on fitness, form and Portugal’s tactical plans.
Note: “Likely candidates” are not confirmed retirements — they are realistic possibilities based on age, recent club situation and the natural cycle of international squads.
Senior players who have already retired before 2026
Pepe — Centre-back (retired Aug 2024)
Pepe, one of Portugal’s most experienced defenders and a leader at major tournaments, announced his retirement from football in August 2024 and therefore was not available for the 2026 cycle.
Rui Patrício — Goalkeeper (retired Dec 11, 2025)
Long-time Portugal keeper Rui Patrício announced his retirement from professional football in December 2025, so he will not feature at the 2026 World Cup.
What Portugal’s post-2026 transition might look like
With Cristiano Ronaldo expected to leave the international stage after 2026, Portugal will face a high-profile leadership and goal-scoring void to fill. The national team’s next chapter will likely revolve around:
- Built-in scorers/creators such as Gonçalo Ramos, João Félix and the younger generation.
- Leadership transferring to established midfielders/defenders who remain after 2026 (depending on who chooses to continue).
- A tactical refresh from the coaching staff to replace Ronaldo’s unique attacking profile.
Which Portugal players are likely to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Several senior Portugal players are expected to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Cristiano Ronaldo being the most high-profile name. Other veteran players may also step away depending on fitness, form, and squad roles.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo retire after the 2026 World Cup?
Cristiano Ronaldo has not officially announced retirement, but World Cup 2026 is widely expected to be his final international tournament with Portugal due to his age and long international career.
How many Portugal players could Retire After the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Portugal may see 2–4 senior players retire after the 2026 World Cup, while younger core players in their 20s and early 30s are expected to continue with the national team.
Are any Portugal players retiring before the 2026 World Cup?
Yes, a few experienced Portugal players have already retired or reduced international involvement ahead of 2026, allowing younger talents to transition into the squad.
Will the 2026 World Cup mark a generational change for Portugal?
Yes, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to mark a major generational shift for Portugal, with new leaders emerging after the retirement of long-serving veterans.
Could Portugal still be competitive after veteran retirements?
Despite potential retirements, Portugal remain strong with a deep pool of young and prime-age talent, ensuring continued competitiveness beyond the 2026 World Cup.
Why is the 2026 FIFA World Cup important for Portugal’s senior players?
For many veteran Portugal players, 2026 represents a final chance to compete on the biggest international stage, making it a natural point to conclude international careers.
