The footballing landscape is set to witness a changing of the guard as several iconic players contemplate retirement or make key decisions about their futures. This season marks a pivotal moment for these seasoned veterans, each with a decorated career and a loyal fanbase. Let’s delve into the decisions facing these legendary figures:
1) Toni Kroos
Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from professional football after the 2024 European Championship. The 34-year-old German midfielder, who joined Madrid in 2014, has been a vital part of the club’s success, winning 22 trophies including four Champions League titles and four La Liga championships. In an emotional Instagram post, Kroos expressed his gratitude to the club, his teammates, and the fans, stating that Madrid will be his first and last club.
2) Leonardo Bonucci
Veteran defender Leonardo Bonucci has announced his decision to retire from professional football at the end of the 2023/24 season. The 36-year-old Italian, who currently plays for Turkish club Fenerbahçe, has enjoyed a storied career spanning over 12 years with Juventus and the Italian national team. During his time with Juventus, Bonucci won an impressive nine Serie A titles and four Coppa Italia trophies, cementing his legacy as a club legend.
3) Pepe
Veteran defender Pepe has signed a contract extension with FC Porto, committing to play for the club until the end of the 2023/24 season when he will be 40 years old. The 133-cap Portugal international, who is in his second spell with Porto, has given a hint to retire from professional football by the end this season. Pepe, who previously played for Real Madrid and Besiktas, stated that he wants to continue competing at the highest level and will only extend his contract if he feels he can still contribute to the team.
4) Sergio Ramos
Sevilla player Sergio Ramos, the seasoned footballer known for his prowess as a center-back and agressive attitude is expected to retire from club football by the end of 2024 season. In 2023, he announced his retirement from international football with a heavy heart. Ramos, Spain’s most-capped player with 180 appearances. Ramos was a stalwart for Real Madrid for 16 years before joining PSG for two years then ultimately returning to his home club Sevilla after 20 years.
5) Luka Modric
Luka Modric, the esteemed midfielder of Real Madrid, has expressed his desire to retire at the club, aiming to conclude his illustrious career with the Spanish giants. Despite rumors surrounding his departure, recent reports indicate that Modric is on the brink of extending his contract with Real Madrid for another year, putting an end to uncertainties about his future. The Croatian star, known for his exceptional contributions to the team, is set to continue his journey with Real Madrid, providing stability and experience to the squad as they navigate through upcoming challenges on and off the pitch.
6) Thomas Müller
Thomas Müller, the legendary Bayern Munich midfielder, has recently addressed rumors surrounding his potential retirement in 2024. Despite speculations, Müller has firmly stated that he is not planning to retire after his current contract expires next year. The 34-year-old has expressed his desire to continue playing for at least another season beyond 2024, emphasizing that he is still enjoying being on the pitch. Müller, who has been a key figure for both Bayern Munich and the German national team, was previously rumored to be considering retirement following Germany’s disappointing group stage exit at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
7) Manuel Neuer
Manuel Neuer, the Bayern Munich legend and World Cup winning goalkeeper, is expected to retire anytime after 2024 Euro Cup. Neuer, who has been a key figure for both Bayern Munich and the German national team, was previously rumored to be considering retirement following Germany’s disappointing group stage exit at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, a serious leg injury kept him away from the game but since his return, he has done a good job for Bayern.
