by Soccer is one of the most physically demanding sports on the planet.
The constant running, explosive sprints, tactical battles, and physical confrontations take an enormous toll on players’ bodies.
Most professional footballers reach their peak performance in their late 20s to early 30s, with the majority retiring before hitting 35.
The physical demands simply become too much—knees wear down, recovery takes longer, and younger, faster players emerge to take their places.
However, exceptional athletes exist who defy these biological limitations.
Some soccer legends continue performing at elite levels well into their late 30s, throughout their 40s, and in truly remarkable cases, even into their 50s.
These warriors of the beautiful game possess extraordinary discipline, genetic gifts, and an unquenchable passion that keeps them competing long after their contemporaries have hung up their boots.
The Top 10 Oldest Active Soccer Players in the World represent the ultimate testament to dedication, professionalism, and love for football.
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Top 10 Oldest Active Soccer Players in the World
This article celebrates ten remarkable individuals whose careers have spanned multiple decades, survived countless injuries, and witnessed the game’s evolution firsthand.
Their stories inspire younger generations while proving that age is sometimes just a number when passion and dedication fuel your dreams.
The Complete Ranking: Oldest Active Soccer Players
#10: Phil Jagielka (Born August 17, 1982)
Current Age: 42 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Sale, England
Current Team: Sheffield United
Position: Center Back
Years Active: 2000 – Present
Phil Jagielka represents the epitome of English defensive reliability and longevity. The center-back has been playing professionally for over two decades, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.
Jagielka’s youth career saw him train with prestigious clubs like Stoke City and Manchester City before joining Sheffield United’s academy in 1998 at just 15 years old.
His professional debut came in 2000 with Sheffield United, where he spent nearly a decade honing his defensive craft. In 2007, Everton recognized his quality and signed him, beginning a remarkable 12-year partnership.
During his time at Goodison Park, Jagielka became club captain and a fan favorite, known for his leadership, positioning, and occasional spectacular goals—including a stunning volley against Liverpool in the Merseyside Derby.
After his Everton contract expired in 2019, Jagielka made an emotional return to Sheffield United, where his professional journey began.
He has since signed consecutive one-year contracts, demonstrating that clubs still value his experience, professionalism, and defensive intelligence. Even in his 40s, Jagielka continues contributing to Sheffield United’s backline when called upon.
Did You Know? Phil Jagielka earned 40 England caps during his international career and represented the Three Lions at UEFA Euro 2012 and the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, showcasing his abilities on football’s biggest stages.
#9: Zlatan Ibrahimović (Born October 3, 1981)
Current Age: 43 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Malmö, Sweden
Current Team: A.C. Milan
Position: Striker
Years Active: 1999 – Present
Zlatan Ibrahimović is arguably the most famous name among the oldest active football players in the world. The Swedish striker is universally regarded as one of football’s greatest-ever forwards, combining physical dominance, technical brilliance, and an unshakeable self-confidence that has become his trademark. Ibrahimović’s journey from Malmö’s rough neighborhoods to global superstardom reads like a Hollywood screenplay.
His professional career began with Malmö FF in 1999, and his extraordinary talent quickly attracted Europe’s elite clubs. Ibrahimović has since played for Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, A.C. Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, LA Galaxy, and back to Milan again. This nomadic career has seen him win league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, France, and England—a rare achievement demonstrating his adaptability and sustained excellence.
What makes Ibrahimović’s longevity even more impressive is his playing style. Unlike many aging strikers who drop deeper or reduce their physical involvement, Zlatan continues playing as a traditional number nine, battling defenders, scoring acrobatic goals, and dominating aerially. His dedication to fitness, martial arts background, and unique training methods have kept him competitive against players half his age.
Did You Know? Zlatan Ibrahimović has scored over 570 career goals, including more than 500 club goals, and remarkably has found the net in each of the last five decades (1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s)—a record that may never be broken.
#8: Willy Caballero (Born September 28, 1981)
Current Age: 43 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Santa Elena, Argentina
Current Team: Currently Free Agent (Last played for Southampton)
Position: Goalkeeper
Years Active: 2001 – Present
Willy Caballero has enjoyed one of the longest careers among active veteran footballers, particularly as a goalkeeper, where longevity is more common due to the position’s less physically demanding nature. The Argentine shot-stopper began his professional journey with legendary club Boca Juniors in 2001, where he learned his craft in one of South America’s most pressure-filled environments.
In 2004, Caballero made the move to European football, joining Spanish side Elche before a successful spell with Málaga that lasted nearly a decade. His performances in La Liga caught the attention of Manchester City, who signed him in 2014 as backup to Joe Hart. Caballero proved to be an excellent deputy, winning the League Cup in 2016 and providing reliable cover when needed.
His move to Chelsea in 2017 continued this pattern of an experienced backup goalkeeper, though he enjoyed memorable moments, including starting in cup finals. Caballero’s professionalism, shot-stopping ability, and calm presence have made him valuable throughout his career. His recent stint with Southampton showed he can still perform when called upon, even in his early 40s.
Did You Know? Willy Caballero represented Argentina at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and was also a non-playing squad member when Argentina won the gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens.
#7: Roque Santa Cruz (Born August 16, 1981)
Current Age: 43 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Asunción, Paraguay
Current Team: Club Olimpia
Position: Striker
Years Active: 1997 – Present
Roque Santa Cruz stands as Paraguay’s most celebrated footballer and one of the longest soccer careers in international football. His professional journey began incredibly early—making his debut for Club Olimpia in 1997 at just 16 years old. His natural goal-scoring instincts and physical presence quickly established him as one of South America’s most promising young strikers.
Santa Cruz’s success in Paraguay earned him a move to Bayern Munich in 1999, where he spent nearly a decade becoming a Bundesliga champion multiple times. His ability to hold up play, score crucial goals, and perform in big matches made him a Bayern fan favorite. Subsequent moves to Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, and brief spells in Spain and Mexico showcased his adaptability to different leagues and playing styles.
In 2016, Santa Cruz returned home to Club Olimpia, the club where his remarkable journey began. Despite his age, he continues to contribute goals and leadership to the Paraguayan giants. His longevity is a testament to his professionalism, natural fitness, and enduring love for the game. Santa Cruz briefly retired from international football in 2016 but expressed interest in returning in 2019, showing his competitive fire remains undiminished.
Did You Know? Roque Santa Cruz is Paraguay’s all-time leading goal scorer with 32 international goals and earned over 100 caps for his country, representing them in multiple Copa América tournaments and World Cups.
#6: Joaquín Sánchez Rodríguez (Born July 21, 1981)
Current Age: 43 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: El Puerto de Santa María, Spain
Current Team: Real Betis
Position: Right Winger
Years Active: 1999 – Present
Joaquín Sánchez Rodríguez, known simply as Joaquín, embodies one-club loyalty and Spanish football passion. The veteran winger is currently the oldest outfield player among the Oldest Active football Players in the World, still competing regularly in Europe’s top leagues. His professional career began with hometown club Real Betis in 1999, where his electrifying pace, dribbling skills, and crossing ability quickly made him a fan favorite.
Joaquín’s talent attracted interest from across Europe, and he spent four successful seasons with Valencia (2006-2010) and a brief spell in Italy with Fiorentina. However, his heart always belonged to Real Betis, and he returned in 2015 to finish his career where it began. This romantic homecoming has lasted nearly a decade, with Joaquín continuing to contribute both on the pitch and as a dressing room leader.
What makes Joaquín’s longevity remarkable is his position—wingers typically rely on pace and explosiveness, attributes that decline with age. However, Joaquín has adapted his game, relying more on experience, positioning, and technical quality. His leadership and experience have proven invaluable to younger teammates, while his occasional appearances still excite the Betis faithful.
Did You Know? Joaquín has appeared in over 600 La Liga matches across multiple decades, scoring more than 80 goals and providing countless assists, making him one of the competition’s most decorated servants.
#5: Maxi Rodríguez (Born January 2, 1981)
Current Age: 44 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Rosario, Argentina
Current Team: Newell’s Old Boys
Position: Attacking Midfielder/Winger
Years Active: 1999 – Present
Maxi Rodríguez represents Argentine football tradition and loyalty among the oldest football players still playing. Born in Rosario, the same city that produced Lionel Messi, Rodríguez spent his entire youth career with Newell’s Old Boys before making his professional debut with the club. His elegant playing style, vision, and ability to score spectacular goals quickly established him as one of Argentina’s brightest talents.
In his early 20s, Rodríguez moved to Spain, where he enjoyed successful spells with Espanyol and Atlético Madrid, winning the UEFA Europa League with Atlético in 2010. He also had a memorable period with Liverpool, where his Champions League performances and crucial goals endeared him to the Anfield faithful. Rodríguez’s ability to perform in big matches made him a valuable player wherever he went.
After extensive European experience, Rodríguez returned to Newell’s Old Boys in 2012, bringing his wealth of knowledge back to Argentina. A brief stint with Uruguayan club Peñarol in 2017-2018 provided a short adventure, but he returned once more to Newell’s, where he continues playing occasionally. His longevity demonstrates the dedication required to compete professionally into your mid-40s.
Did You Know? Maxi Rodríguez represented Argentina in three FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014), reaching the final in 2014, where Argentina narrowly lost to Germany in extra time.
#4: Shunsuke Nakamura (Born June 24, 1978)
Current Age: 46 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Yokohama, Japan
Current Team: Yokohama FC
Position: Midfielder
Years Active: 1997 – Present
Shunsuke Nakamura is Japan’s second-oldest active footballer and one of the country’s greatest-ever players. The midfielder’s career has spanned nearly three decades, showcasing remarkable longevity and sustained quality. Born and raised in Yokohama, Nakamura has been playing competitive soccer since age five, developing the technical skills and free-kick mastery that would define his career.
Nakamura’s professional journey began with Yokohama Marinos in 1997, where his playmaking abilities and dead-ball expertise quickly made him a J-League star. His success in Japan earnedhim moves to Europe, where he played for Reggina in Italy, achieved legendary status at Celtic in Scotland (winning multiple titles and scoring unforgettable free-kicks), and had a brief spell with Espanyol in Spain.
Returning to Japan in 2010, Nakamura rejoined Yokohama Marinos before transferring to Yokohama FC in 2019, where he continues playing at 46 years old. His longevity stems from exceptional technical ability—skills that don’t decline as dramatically as physical attributes. Nakamura’s vision, passing range, and set-piece delivery remain valuable even as he approaches 50.
Did You Know? Shunsuke Nakamura is the only player in J-League history to win the Most Valuable Player award twice, receiving the honor in 2000 and again in 2013 at age 35—demonstrating sustained excellence across generations.
#3: Gianluigi Buffon (Born January 28, 1978)
Current Age: 46 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Carrara, Tuscany, Italy
Current Team: Parma Calcio
Position: Goalkeeper
Years Active: 1995 – Present
Gianluigi Buffon is universally regarded as one of football’s greatest-ever goalkeepers and the oldest player still competing in Europe’s major leagues. The Italian legend’s career has spanned an extraordinary 30 years, during which he’s won virtually every trophy except the UEFA Champions League. Buffon comes from an athletic family—his mother was a three-time Italian champion in discus and shot put, providing the genetic foundation for his remarkable physical longevity.
Buffon’s professional career began with Parma in 1995 when he was just 17. His exceptional shot-stopping, command of the penalty area, and mental strength quickly established him as Italy’s best goalkeeper. Juventus signed him in 2001 for a then-world record fee for a goalkeeper, beginning a relationship that has defined both Buffon and Juve for over two decades (with a brief PSG interlude in 2018-2019).
What makes Buffon’s longevity exceptional is that goalkeeping at the highest level requires incredible reflexes, positioning, and concentration—all of which he maintains in his mid-40s. His return to Parma in 2021, the club where his career began, provided a perfect full-circle moment. Buffon continues defying expectations, proving that world-class goalkeepers can compete into their late 40s.
Did You Know? Gianluigi Buffon holds the Serie A record for the longest streak without conceding a goal—974 consecutive minutes during the 2015-16 season, keeping 10 consecutive clean sheets and proving that even in his late 30s, he remained untouchable.
#2: Vitorino Hilton (Born September 13, 1977)
Current Age: 47 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Brasília, Brazil
Current Team: Recently retired from Montpellier HSC
Position: Center Back
Years Active: 1996 – 2023
Vitorino Hilton spent nearly three decades as one of football’s most durable defenders, featuring prominently among the oldest football players still playing until his recent retirement. The Brazilian center-back’s professional career began in 1996 with Chapecoense before he made the journey to Europe that would define his playing days. His physical strength, defensive intelligence, and remarkable fitness allowed him to compete at elite levels well into his 40s.
Hilton’s European adventure began in Switzerland before he settled in France, where he became a Ligue 1 institution. His move to Montpellier HSC in 2011 proved to be the defining partnership of his career. Hilton not only became a defensive stalwart but also team captain, leading by example with his professionalism and consistent performances. His longevity at Montpellier—playing into his mid-40s—is virtually unprecedented for an outfield player in Europe’s top five leagues.
In 2017, Hilton made history by becoming French Ligue 1’s oldest-ever goalscorer at age 39, though his record was later broken. His ability to maintain top-flight performance levels into his late 40s speaks to extraordinary genetics, dedication to fitness, and intelligent position play that compensated for any physical decline. Hilton retired as a Montpellier legend and one of football’s most remarkable longevity stories.
Did You Know? Vitorino Hilton played professional football across four different decades (1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s) and remained a regular starter in France’s top division well into his 40s—an achievement almost unheard of for outfield players.
#1: Kazuyoshi Miura (Born February 26, 1967)
Current Age: 58 years old (as of 2025)
Country of Origin: Shizuoka, Japan
Current Team: Suzuka Point Getters
Position: Forward
Years Active: 1986 – Present
Kazuyoshi Miura, affectionately known as “King Kazu,” is not only the oldest active soccer player in the world but the oldest professional footballer in history. At 58 years old, Miura continues defying every conventional understanding of athletic longevity. His career has spanned an absolutely mind-boggling six decades (1980s through 2020s), a record that may never be equaled in professional football.
Miura’s journey began at just 15 when he traveled alone to Brazil to pursue his football dreams, joining Clube Atlético Juventus’s youth system in São Paulo. His professional debut came in 1986 with Santos, and since then, Miura has played for numerous clubs across Brazil, Japan, Italy, Croatia, and Australia. His most significant years came in Japan’s J-League, where he became the competition’s first superstar and helped popularize professional football in his homeland.
What makes Miura’s longevity absolutely extraordinary is that he’s a forward—a position requiring speed, agility, and explosive movement that typically declines sharply with age. Yet Miura continues appearing for Suzuka Point Getters in Japan’s lower divisions, still occasionally finding the net. His dedication to training, diet, and recovery has become legendary, with younger players seeking his advice on career longevity.
Did You Know? Kazuyoshi Miura holds numerous age-related records, including being the oldest professional footballer to score a competitive goal (at 50 years old) and the only player to compete professionally across six different decades—a record that grows more impressive with each passing year.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Oldest Active Soccer Players
| Rank | Player Name | Age | Country | Current Club | Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kazuyoshi Miura | 58 | Japan | Suzuka Point Getters | Forward |
| 2 | Vitorino Hilton | 47 | Brazil | Retired (2023) | Center Back |
| 3 | Gianluigi Buffon | 46 | Italy | Parma Calcio | Goalkeeper |
| 4 | Shunsuke Nakamura | 46 | Japan | Yokohama FC | Midfielder |
| 5 | Maxi Rodríguez | 44 | Argentina | Newell’s Old Boys | Attacking Midfielder |
| 6 | Joaquín Sánchez | 43 | Spain | Real Betis | Right Winger |
| 7 | Roque Santa Cruz | 43 | Paraguay | Club Olimpia | Striker |
| 8 | Willy Caballero | 43 | Argentina | Free Agent | Goalkeeper |
| 9 | Zlatan Ibrahimović | 43 | Sweden | A.C. Milan | Striker |
| 10 | Phil Jagielka | 42 | England | Sheffield United | Center Back |
What Makes These Veterans Keep Playing?
- Physical Excellence and Genetics
The Top 10 Oldest Active Soccer Players in the World share several common traits that explain their remarkable longevity. Exceptional genetics play a crucial role—bodies that recover faster, joints that withstand punishment, and cardiovascular systems that maintain efficiency all contribute to extended careers. These players won the genetic lottery in many respects.
- Dedication to Fitness and Recovery
Every player on this list maintains an obsessive dedication to physical conditioning. They follow strict diets, employ cutting-edge recovery techniques, and often train harder than teammates half their age. Zlatan Ibrahimović’s taekwondo-inspired training, Buffon’s yoga practice, and Miura’s legendary discipline exemplify this commitment.
- Tactical Intelligence Compensates for Physical Decline
As speed and explosiveness diminish, these veterans compensate with superior positioning, game reading, and decision-making. Experience allows them to anticipate plays before they develop, conserving energy and remaining effective despite physical limitations.
- Passion for the Game
Perhaps most importantly, these players simply love football too much to quit. The joy of competition, camaraderie of teammates, and thrill of matchdays keep them returning season after season. When you genuinely love what you do, retirement becomes unthinkable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- 1. Who is the oldest active soccer player in the world?
Kazuyoshi Miura from Japan is the oldest active soccer player in the world at 58 years old. “King Kazu” continues playing for Suzuka Point Getters and holds the record as the oldest professional footballer in history, with a career spanning six decades.
- 2. Do soccer players usually retire early compared to other sports?
Yes, soccer players typically retire earlier than athletes in less physically demanding sports. Most professional footballers retire between the ages of 33-37 due to the sport’s intense physical requirements. The constant running, explosive movements, and injury accumulation make long careers extremely difficult.
- 3. Which goalkeeper has played the longest professional career?
Gianluigi Buffon has one of the longest goalkeeper careers, playing professionally since 1995—over 30 years. At 46 years old, he continues competing at Parma Calcio, demonstrating that goalkeepers can maintain elite performance longer than outfield players due to the position’s specific demands.
- 4. Has anyone played professional soccer into their 50s?
Yes, Kazuyoshi Miura is the only player to compete professionally in his 50s, currently playing at 58 years old. He scored a competitive goal at age 50 and shows no signs of stopping, making him football’s ultimate longevity story and an inspiration to aging athletes worldwide.
- 5. Why can goalkeepers play longer than outfield players?
Goalkeepers typically enjoy longer careers because the position requires less running and explosive sprinting than outfield positions. While reflexes, positioning, and decision-making remain crucial, the reduced cardiovascular demands allow goalkeepers to compete effectively into their 40s with proper conditioning.
- 6. What is the secret to playing professional soccer past 40?
Players who compete past 40 share several traits: exceptional genetics, obsessive dedication to fitness and recovery, tactical intelligence that compensates for physical decline, and genuine passion for the game. They also typically avoid serious injuries throughout their careers and adapt their playing styles as they age.
Conclusion: When Passion Meets Longevity
The Top 10 Oldest Active Soccer Players in the World represent football’s most remarkable defiance of age and physical limitations.
From Kazuyoshi Miura’s six-decade career to Gianluigi Buffon’s 30-year excellence between the posts, these athletes have rewritten expectations about how long professional footballers can compete at elite levels.
Their stories inspire millions of fans and younger players worldwide. They prove that dedication, professionalism, intelligent training, and genuine love for the beautiful game can extend careers far beyond conventional wisdom suggests.
Each additional season these veterans complete adds to their legendary status and provides hope that our favorite players might continue performing longer than we dared imagine.
