FIFA World Cup 2022 excitement and anticipation are at an all-time high, with only a few weeks to go. Football's World Cup is the sport's most prestigious competition, and every player has World Cup glory in their sights. Despite this, many of the world's best athletes have yet to hoist the trophy and many of those who haven't may get the chance to do so because they're nearing the end of their careers.
The 2022 World Cup has the potential to be a watershed moment in their history, and they may be able to retire with their most coveted trophy if they win it. Let's look at some players who might hang it up after the 2022 World Cup.
1. Ángel Di María
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Di Maria has a history of rising to the occasion in big games, and his winning goal in the Copa America final certainly did that for him in Argentina. The injury to the 34-year-old top player was largely blamed for Argentina's inability to win the 2014 World Cup. Though he is hurt now, Di Maria should be OK by the time the competition rolls around.
2. Manuel Neuer
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One of Europe's most decorated goalkeepers, Neuer is a rock between the posts. As a result of his outstanding performance in the 2014 World Cup final, he was named the tournament's best goalie. Neuer, 36, will be Germany's starting goalkeeper in his final World Cup.
3. Luis Suarez
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After the 2022 World Cup, Luis Suarez, like Edinson Cavani, will retire from international play. The 35-year-old former Barcelona great is now playing for his original squad, Nacional. Luis Suarez, one of the best strikers of all time, scored 56 goals in 134 games for his country and is the team's all-time leading scorer. This athlete is well past his peak and will not see extensive action this season. After the World Cup, he'll almost probably quit the national team.
4. Edinson Cavani
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The World Cup will be the last time the Uruguayan player suits up for his country. Cavani joined Valencia after leaving United to increase his playing time prior to the World Cup. Together, the 35-year-old and Suarez will catalyze Uruguay's attack.
5. Robert Lewandowski
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Another famous striker, Lewandowski, will retire after Qatar's World Cup. Even though the country of the Barcelona striker isn't regarded as one of the favorites, he has scored 76 goals in 134 games for Poland and will be ready to light up the tournament with his performance. He has been in great form since joining Barcelona, scoring 14 goals in all competitions. Lewandowski plans to take his current form into the World Cup.
6. Thomas Muller
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Having previously won the World Cup, Muller will likely retire from the sport after the upcoming tournament in Qatar. Muller has had a significant impact on his country thanks to his technical skill, and he is still the essential player for Germany despite being 33 years old.
7. Cristiano Ronaldo
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Given that Ronaldo is on the cusp of turning 40 and is steadily losing his signature traits, it is quite unlikely that we will ever get to see him play in another World Cup. But his fame ensures his spot in the 2022 World Cup. Thanks to Portugal's deep roster, he will participate in his sixth World Cup and be inspired to bring home the championship even though he's 37 years old.
8. Lionel Messi
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The greatest player of all time, at 35 years old, will have another shot at redemption in the 2022 World Cup. He'll be hoping to put 2014's heartbreak in the rearview mirror. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner didn't want to blow his chance at a third World Cup, especially since Lionel Messi and his teammates are heavy favorites to win this tournament. He is Argentina's all-time leading scorer with 86 goals and 51 assists throughout 162 appearances.