Veteran footballers competing well into their late thirties and even early forties are setting a powerful example for the next generation, according to former Germany and United States head coach Jürgen Klinsmann, who believes modern players are proving that elite careers can last more than two decades with the right commitment.
Speaking at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, Klinsmann praised the professionalism and discipline that have enabled several established stars to remain at the highest level.
The legendary former Die Mannschaft striker is serving at the tournament as a member of FIFA Technical Study Group, where he is helping analyse matches and provide technical insights into the evolution of the modern game.
Klinsmann knows what it takes to succeed on football’s biggest stage. As a player, he featured in three FIFA World Cups, scoring 11 goals and helping West Germany lift the trophy at 1990 FIFA World Cup.
He later returned to the tournament as a coach, guiding Germany to the semi-finals on home soil in 2006 before leading the United States to the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Now working alongside Arsène Wenger, Pascal Zuberbühler and a panel of distinguished football figures on FIFA’s Technical Study Group, Klinsmann believes the current World Cup has showcased a remarkable shift in how long elite players can extend their careers.
Changing the Limits of Longevity
Klinsmann said modern footballers are challenging long-held beliefs about age in elite sport through discipline and lifestyle choices. “It’s fantastic and fascinating to see these athletes understanding that they can prolong their careers with a specific lifestyle and a dedication to their profession into a fourth, fifth or sixth World Cup,” he said.
The former striker noted that playing at the highest level into one’s early forties would have been almost unimaginable two or three decades ago.
He believes improvements in sports science, nutrition, conditioning and recovery have transformed what is possible for elite athletes, allowing them to remain competitive much longer than previous generations.
According to Klinsmann, football is now following a broader trend seen across several sports, with elite competitors extending their careers through meticulous preparation and unwavering professionalism.
Veterans Inspiring a New Generation
Klinsmann believes experienced stars continue to provide an invaluable reference point for football’s brightest young talents.
He highlighted icons such as Luka Modrić, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Manuel Neuer, who are sharing the global stage with emerging stars including Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham and Florian Wirtz.
Rather than seeing age as a barrier, Klinsmann argued that younger players can view the longevity of today’s veterans as motivation to plan for lengthy careers.
“If I am Florian Wirtz and see Messi and Ronaldo at the moment, I still have 15 to 18 years ahead of me if I look after myself and hopefully not get badly injured. It is a great orientation for the younger generation.”
Jurgen Klinsmann, Member of FIFA’s Technical Study Group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Klinsmann believes such examples reinforce the importance of discipline away from the pitch just as much as talent on it.
Experience Continues to Shape the Game
Beyond his achievements as a player and coach, Klinsmann remains an influential voice in football through FIFA’s Technical Study Group, which studies tactical developments and emerging trends throughout the World Cup.
The group features an accomplished collection of former players and coaches, including Otto Addo, Tobin Heath, Jayne Ludlow, Michael O’Neill, Gilberto Silva, Jon Dahl Tomasson, Paulo Wanchope, Aron Winter and Pablo Zabaleta.
For Klinsmann, the tournament is demonstrating that football’s future is not defined solely by exciting young prospects but also by experienced professionals who continue to compete at the highest level.
He believes the enduring success of the game’s veteran stars sends a clear message to aspiring footballers worldwide. According to Klinsmann, exceptional talent may open the door, but dedication, discipline and a commitment to healthy living are what can keep that door open for decades.
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