8 Big-Name Footballers Older Than Luka Modrić Still Playing in 2025

 

Modrić turns 40 this year… but these legends were born before him and are still lacing up their boots at the pro level. Let’s go oldest to youngest 

Roque Santa Cruz (44, Olimpia)

Born: Aug 16, 1981

The Paraguayan icon is still leading the line for his boyhood club. Four decades on, still scoring goals in South America.

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José Fonte (41, Casa Pia)

Born: Dec 22, 1983

Euro 2016 champion with Portugal, now back home in Lisbon. At 41, he remains a rock in defense for Casa Pia.

Dante (41, OGC Nice)

Born: Oct 18, 1983

A rare outfield 40+ starter in Europe’s top leagues. The Brazilian defender still marshals Nice’s back line in Ligue 1.

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Thiago Silva (41, Fluminense)

Born: Sept 22, 1984

Returned to his boyhood club after Chelsea glory. Still classy, still commanding, still Thiago Silva.

Santi Cazorla (40, Real Oviedo)

Born: Dec 13, 1984

Back at his hometown club. Technical wizard, fan favorite, and even donating part of his wages to Oviedo’s academy.

Cristiano Ronaldo (40, Al-Nassr)

Born: Feb 5, 1985

The machine keeps going. Top scorer in Saudi Arabia, still chasing records at 40. Football’s ultimate survivor.

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Lukas Podolski (40, Górnik Zabrze)

Born: June 4, 1985

World Cup winner, still banging them in for Górnik. Beloved everywhere he goes, “Poldi” isn’t done yet.

Ashley Young (40, Ipswich Town)

Born: July 9, 1985

From Watford to United to Inter to Ipswich. Still versatile, still reliable, still going strong in the Championship.