The UEFA Euro 2024 has been an exciting journey for football fans, filled with drama, action, and thrills. However, it will also mark the end of an era as some footballing greats will play for the last time in this competition. These players have provided countless memorable nights and have left a lasting impact on the football world with their remarkable careers and record-breaking performances.
These players have shown their brilliance on the field and forged a strong bond with fans, which will always be cherished. With the next Euros four years away, it is the perfect time for them to bid farewell to their loyal fans who have supported them through thick and thin. Football always brings emotions, as the players feel the fans’ love and affection for their team. Let’s now take a look at the top five players who will be playing their last Euro.
5. Olivier Giroud
Olivier Giroud has been an outstanding player for France and played a crucial part in their World Cup-winning campaign. He is one of those players who play not for individual success but for the team. Giroud has enjoyed a rollercoaster journey with Les Bleus since making his breakthrough in the side in 2011. Going forward, his experience and goal-scoring prowess will be a big miss for them.
As he has mentioned, it is now the perfect moment for the next generation to establish themselves within the team. Giroud appeared 137 times for them, scoring 57 goals, surpassing the legendary Thierry Henry to become the all-time leading goal scorer. His remarkable service has secured him a legendary status within the team. The former Arsenal striker announced his decision at the end of May.
France striker Olivier Giroud, said:
“To be honest, this will be my last tournament with France.
“I will miss it a lot. But I believe that, as regards Les Bleus, it will be game over after Euro. It is time to leave the stage to the young.
“If I triumph in the Euro, I can say that I won everything apart from the Premier League, which is very difficult to win.” 
4. Pepe
After playing in his last Euros for the national team, Pepe was filled with emotions. Despite being 41 years old, he continues to amaze fans with his incredible game. Pepe is a physical defender who first gained recognition at Real Madrid. He debuted with the national team in 2007 and has appeared for them 141 times. Only Cristiano Ronaldo has made more appearances for the national team than him.
Pepe was a rock at the back for Portugal in the tournament, limiting the opponents’ clear-cut chances. Even the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann found him a tough defender. Pepe clearly envisioned playing in his last Euros, with the next one coming after four years. He will finish his tenure in this competition with a trophy after becoming the champions in 2016. Pepe is currently without a club, and after the loss against France, he hinted at considering his future.
Portugal defender, Pepe, said:
“This is not the time to talk about a certain farewell to the national team. It is a moment of loss. I will have the opportunity to talk about it.”
Although Pepe has not announced his retirement, Euro 2024 was surely his last Euros considering his age.
3. Luka Modric
With his brilliant play, Luka Modric is regarded as one of the best midfielders to have graced world football. He has led his team to numerous tournaments, including a memorable 2018 FIFA World Cup run, where they ultimately lost to France in the final. That year was particularly impressive for him, as he became the first Croatian player to win the Ballon d’Or following his outstanding performances.
Luka Modric initially made a name for himself at Real Madrid, where he impressed everyone with his vision, technique, and ability to score outstanding goals. As he nears the end of his career and with the next Euro four years away, we will have the opportunity to witness his brilliance for the last time in this competition. He has created many unforgettable memories for fans with the national team and his club, Real Madrid.
Modric has not announced his retirement yet, but he hinted at future decisions after a journalist requested him, “I just wanted to say this to you… I’d like to ask you never to retire from your playing career because you are one of the finest players I have ever commented on. Thank you.”
Luka Modric, Croatia midfielder, replied:
“I would also like to keep playing forever, but there probably will be a time when I must hang up my boots. I’ll keep playing on, I don’t know how long, but thank you very much for your words.”
2. Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos will leave a lasting impression on the fans after guiding Die Mannschaft to several trophies during his time with the team. He will be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders in the world after performing on the center stage for over 14 years. Kroos announced before the tournament that this would be the last time we see him in the German national team colors. Toni Kroos will always be known for his exceptional passing ability, often becoming the team’s anchor in the middle of the field.
His skill in controlling the game’s tempo and creating scoring opportunities with his exceptional vision makes him a standout player. He will be fondly remembered for his performances in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he played a pivotal role. His outstanding performances in that tournament earned him a move to the prestigious club Real Madrid, and the rest is history. Kroos confirmed his decision on Instagram and acknowledged all well-wishers during his career.
Toni Kroos, Former Real Madrid midfielder, said:
“So that’s it.
“But before I take a break and at least try to realize what happened over the last 17 years, I don’t want to miss the opportunity to thank everyone for accepting me for who I am.”
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the most decorated players in football history. Throughout his illustrious career, he has demonstrated incredible skill, breaking numerous records and achieving the title of the all-time leading goalscorer. His most memorable achievement came in 2016 when he secured this prestigious trophy.
Ronaldo confirmed that it will be his last Euros before the France clash while speaking to ESPN.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal forward, said:
“Without a doubt, it’s the last Euro [for me], of course, it is.
“I’m not emotional about that; I’m moved by everything that football entails, by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm I see in the fans, having my family here, people’s passion … It’s not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win?”
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in the European Championship with 14. At 39, he continues to amaze the world with his performances. However, with the next Euros four years away, it may be time for him to say goodbye to this competition. Nonetheless, fans can look forward to his greatness in the FIFA World Cup 2026 as long as he retains the desire and hunger to compete.
