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Former Real Madrid players at the 2026 World Cup

Real Madrid fans will be able to keep an eye on some of their former heroes at the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal v Chile - International Friendly
Portugal v Chile - International Friendly | Sports Press Photo/GettyImages

Surprisingly, there are no current Real Madrid players in Spain's roster for the 2026 World Cup. However, many of Los Blancos' other players, such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham, will be at the tournament. Also, there will be some notable ex-Real Madrid players competing.

Former Real Madrid players at the 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo - Portugal

As Cristiano Ronaldo is now 41, this will probably be his last chance to win the World Cup. He needs this trophy to level his long-term individual rival, Lionel Messi. The Argentine lifted the trophy in 2022, and this is an argument for many that Messi is better.

Ronaldo is not the player who starred for Real Madrid between 2009 and 2018. He now plays in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr and is more of a target man. Many have the opinion that Portugal is a better side without him. However, Ronaldo is seen as being undroppable for Roberto Martinez's side.

Luka Modrić - Croatia

Luka Modrić is now also in his 40s, but remains competing in Europe with AC Milan. With Croatia, he has done very well at World Cups. They were runners-up in 2018 and came third in 2022. Whether they will be able to repeat these feats remains to be seen. Along with the likes of Ivan Perišić and Andrej Kramarić, many of Modrić's teammates are also in the latter stages of their careers.

Achraf Hakimi - Morocco

It is often forgotten that Achraf Hakimi is a former Real Madrid player, as he made only nine La Liga appearances for the club. He has also since become so synonymous with Paris Saint-Germain. His Moroccan side was the surprise package of the last World Cup; they reached the semi-finals before losing to France. They are now seen as dark horses for the tournament this summer.

Casemiro - Brazil

Casemiro is now 34 and will be departing Manchester United this summer. However, he remains a key part of Carlo Ancelotti's side. The Brazilian may end up staying in North America, as he has been heavily linked with a move to Inter Miami.

James Rodríguez - Colombia

James Rodríguez has recently been playing in MLS with Minnesota United. He will always be remembered for his wonder-goal against Uruguay at the 2014 World Cup. Rodríguez transferred to Real Madrid that summer, but recently the now 34-year-old has become a journeyman when it comes to club soccer.

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