7 Legendary Footballers Who Are Likely Playing Their Last Season

While some stars have hinted at retirement, others may simply move away from top-level football due to age, injuries, or form. These players have entertained fans for more than a decade with their goals, trophies, and unforgettable moments, but their incredible journeys might be reaching the end.

Here are 7 legendary footballers who are likely playing their final season.

Cristiano, now 40 years old, continues to defy age by performing at a high level with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia and still playing for Portugal.

However, the 2025-26 season could be his last at a competitive level despite the news of a two-year extension until 2027. He has already hinted that retirement is near, especially with the rise of younger Portuguese stars.

Despite his age, Ronaldo still scores goals regularly in the Saudi Pro League, and he remains a global marketing force. But physically, the demands of professional football and back-to-back international tournaments are starting to take their toll.

Fans across the world are cherishing every match he plays now, knowing they might never see the iconic “Siu” celebration again after this season.

At 39, Luka Modric has already achieved everything a midfielder could dream of, winning a Ballon d’Or, Champions League trophies, and a World Cup final with Croatia.

The 2045-25 season is expected to be his last at Real Madrid, where younger midfielders like Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga are taking over. However, the 2025-26 season could be his last one in football generally. 

Modric’s intelligence, passing range, and vision still make him useful in key moments, but he is now a squad rotation player. 

Legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has been the face of goalkeeping evolution for over a decade. At 39 years old, he is still with Bayern Munich, but injuries have affected his rhythm and form.

After missing most of 2023 due to a skiing accident, Neuer has returned but faces strong competition from backup goalkeepers and a changing Bayern side.

It is likely that the 2025-26 campaign will be Neuer’s last as Bayern Munich looks for a long-term successor, though his contribution to modern football remains unmatched.

After a glittering career in Europe with AC Milan, PSG, and Chelsea, Thiago Silva returned to Fluminense in Brazil for a farewell season.

Now 40 years old, Silva ended his time at Chelsea in 2024 and rejoined his boyhood club. His return was emotional, but many believe this is his final year in professional football.

Thiago has already stated that he wants to retire in Brazil, and his Fluminense contract is short-term. His legacy as one of the best defenders of his generation is already secure.

This final run at home is expected to be his curtain call, and fans are watching closely as a Brazilian great prepares to bow out.

Olivier Giroud has moved back home to France with Lille after ending his journey with MLS side LAFC following a contract termination.

Now 38, the French striker went to America for a new experience and is now closer to retirement. He is France’s all-time leading scorer and a World Cup winner, but his international career appears to be over.

Giroud’s move to the United States was seen as a farewell tour, while his move to France also depicts the same. Though still capable of scoring goals, he is focused more on his family and life beyond football.

If this is his last season, fans will remember him for his crucial goals, professionalism, and underrated contribution to club and country success.

Ramos returned to Sevilla in 2023, the club where it all began. However, the 39-year-old defender left for Mexico in 2025, joining Monterrey, a move that reportedly caused an issue with his wife.

Ramos has already said he would consider retirement soon, depending on how his body feels.

Though he still has the desire and winning mentality, Ramos knows he cannot keep playing at the highest level forever. 

From winning multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid to captaining Spain to World Cup and Euro glory, Ramos’s legacy is unforgettable.

At 38 years old, Luis Suarez is widely expected to be playing his final professional season with Inter Miami. The Uruguayan striker reunited with Lionel Messi in the MLS, forming part of a veteran attacking line-up that also includes Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Suarez has had an iconic career at clubs like Ajax, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid. He won La Liga titles, the UEFA Champions League (2015), and numerous Golden Boots. His lethal finishing, sharp movement, and fiery passion made him one of the most feared strikers in world football.

With his pace slowing and fitness an issue, Suarez is now transitioning to a mentoring role at Inter Miami. He has already suggested that retirement is near, and the 2025 MLS season could mark the final chapter of a legendary career that has seen him score over 500 goals.