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From Thiago Silva to Luka Modrić, the 2025 Club World Cup features seasoned professionals still influencing the global stage. Their experience offers clubs a strategic edge on and off the pitch as younger talent continues to emerge.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States has gathered some of the world’s best clubs and some of football’s most seasoned veterans.
While the tournament showcases rising stars, it also highlights players who defy age, proving that experience and longevity remain invaluable on the pitch.
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Here’s a look at the 10 oldest players competing in this year’s Club World Cup, each bringing a wealth of skill and leadership.
1. Fábio (Fluminense) – 44 years
The oldest player at the tournament, Fábio, is a legendary goalkeeper for Fluminense. At 44 years and 9 months, he’s not just playing; he’s making history.
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With over 1,375 official competitive matches under his belt, Fábio ranks second in all-time appearances in football history. His presence between the sticks is a masterclass in longevity and consistency.
2. Thiago Silva (Fluminense) – 40 years
Another Fluminense stalwart, Thiago Silva, who joined his boyhood club from Premier League club Chelsea, continues to defy age at 40 years and 9 months.
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The veteran defender brings leadership and experience to the backline, showing why he remains a key figure at the highest level.
3. Dennis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns) – 40 years
The Ugandan goalkeeper is one of Africa’s most decorated players and a vital part of Mamelodi Sundowns’ squad.
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At 40, Onyango’s experience was crucial in Sundowns’ historic CAF Champions League win and remains invaluable on the world stage.
4. Ibrahim Keita (Al-Ain) – 40 years
Ivory Coast’s Ibrahim Keita, a midfielder for Al-Ain, rounds out the 40-year-old club on this Club World Cup list.
His calm presence and midfield control are assets for his team as they compete against the world’s best.
5. Luka Modrić (Real Madrid) – 39 years
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, Luka Modrić, remains one of football’s greatest midfield maestros.
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At nearly 40, he’s still pulling the strings for Real Madrid and aiming for a sixth Club World Cup title in what is expected to be his final appearance for the Spanish giants.
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6. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 39 years
Germany’s legendary goalkeeper Neuer remains commanding for the Bundesliga’s most dominant side, Bayern Munich.
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His reflexes and leadership continue to defy his age, making him one of the tournament’s most experienced shot-stoppers.
7. Enzo Pérez (River Plate) – 39 years
The Argentine midfielder Enzo Perez comes in with his impressive grit and tactical intelligence to River Plate.
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His experience in South American football is a key factor in his team’s ambitions at the Club World Cup.
8. Shusaku Nishikawa (Urawa Reds) – 39 years
Japan’s veteran goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa is a rock for Urawa Reds, who are looking to make Japan and Asia proud in the US.
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His agility and shot-stopping skills have earned him a place among the tournament’s oldest and most reliable players.
9. Stefan Frei (Seattle Sounders) – 39 years
The American goalkeeper and captain of Seattle Sounders, Frei, is known for his leadership and clutch saves.
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At 39, he continues to be a vital figure for his Major League Soccer, MLS, team in this global competition.
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10. Gustavo Cabral (Pachuca) – 39 years
The Argentine defender Gustavo Cabral brings experience and composure to Pachuca’s backline, proving that age is no barrier to competing at the highest level.
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Honourable Mention: Scott Carson (Manchester City) – 39 years
Veteran English goalkeeper Scott Carson is also among the oldest players at the tournament, providing depth and experience to Manchester City’s squad.
These seasoned players demonstrate that football is as much about experience, leadership, and tactical intelligence as it is about youthful energy.
Their presence enriches the tournament, offering fans a chance to see these legends still performing at the highest level and inspiring the next generation.
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