Manuel Neuer (Germany, 40)<\/p>\n
First participated in the World Cup in 2010 before winning the trophy four years later. Germany have had little success since and their penalty shootout defeat by Paraguay<\/a> marked the end of Neuer\u2019s international career. He initially retired after Euro 2024 but reversed that decision a few weeks before this tournament. \u201cDespite the bitter end, I don\u2019t regret this decision,\u201d he said after his 23rd and final World Cup appearance. The former Germany defender Robert Huth criticised the decision to bring Neuer out of retirement: \u201cI think the big one that really unsettles the squad was the Neuer inclusion. I think [it was] really unexpected, he came late to the table.\u201d<\/p>\n Patrik Schick (Czechia, 30)<\/p>\n Made his World Cup debut this summer having left an impression at Euro 2020. Schick failed to score as Czechia went winless and were eliminated in the group stage. The striker announced his international retirement hours after the final group game. \u201cToday, my national team chapter is coming to an end,\u201d he said. The official Czechia statement paid tribute: \u201cThank you for every match, every goal, and the pride with which you represented the Czech Republic.\u201d<\/p>\n Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico, 41)<\/p>\n Cemented himself as a fans\u2019 favourite in 2014 when he kept a famous clean sheet against the World Cup hosts, Brazil. His playing time was limited this summer, but he got 12 minutes against Czechia<\/a>, where he was celebrated by teammates. After full time the manager, Javier Aguirre, said: \u201cThe moment he stepped on to the pitch, it overshadowed everything else. He is a world-class legend, and I am incredibly proud of him.\u201d Ochoa later posted: \u201cIt was the greatest privilege of my life. Thank you for believing, for always accompanying us. I love you Mexico.\u201d<\/p>\n Guillermo Ochoa shows his emotions after Mexico\u2019s exit against England. Photograph: \u00c1lex Cruz\/EPARiyad Mahrez (Algeria, 35)<\/p>\n Having made one appearance at the 2014 finals, Mahrez had to wait 12 years to add to his tally. He scored two goals against Austria before Algeria were eliminated in the last 32 by Switzerland<\/a> in his final game. Mahrez said: \u201cRepresenting Algeria has been a dream of mine ever since I was young, to play for my country. It\u2019s been an immense honour and a great source of pride.\u201d A Confederation of African Football\u2019s statement said: \u201cYou gave us memories that time can never take away. Thank you, Riyad Mahrez.\u201d<\/p>\n mahrez<\/a>Enner Valencia (Ecuador, 36)<\/p>\n The forward got six goals in as many matches across the 2014 and 2022 finals but was unable to add to that tally for an Ecuador team who lost to Mexico<\/a> in the last 32. \u201cI\u2019ve played my last match with the national team,\u201d he said in the tunnel after. Ecuador\u2019s official X account showed appreciation to their record scorer: \u201cThe GOAT. Super Enner. Thank you for giving yourself to the country and representing it in the best way.\u201d<\/p>\n Nicol\u00e1s Otamendi (Argentina, 38)<\/p>\n The uncompromising defender played every minute as Argentina triumphed in Qatar, having made his World Cup debut in 2010. Playing time was harder to come by in North America, though he featured in every game bar one, having revealed his intention to retire in March. \u201cIt\u2019s my last World Cup, from there I\u2019ll be a fan,\u201d he said. Otamendi\u2019s final home match became a tribute, with Lionel Messi letting him score a penalty at La Bombonera.<\/p>\n Marko Arnautovic (Austria, 37)<\/p>\n This was the striker\u2019s first and last World Cup. He scored twice as Austria reached the last 32, where they were defeated<\/a> 3\u20130 by Spain. Arnautovic revealed his departure in an emotional post-match interview, saying: \u201cPlaying for Austria was the biggest highlight. It hits me that from now on I won\u2019t see my second family any more.\u201d In a social media post, the Austrian Football Association said: \u201cWhat a career. What a character. Thank you for everything.\u201d<\/p>\n Sadio Man\u00e9 (Senegal, 34)<\/p>\n