The Evolution of the Modern Finisher
Emma Hayes has claimed that the world’s elite forwards are redefining what is possible for players in the latter stages of their careers, and believes that both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could yet feature at another FIFA World Cup.
Writing in The Guardian, the USWNT coach and columnist argued that the increasing importance of technical and tactical intelligence over pure physical explosiveness means that world‑class finishers will now routinely excel into their 40s.
“I would be shocked if the record for the most goals scored by a player in a World Cup – Just Fontaine’s 13 in 1958 – is not broken this summer,” Hayes wrote. “That is how elite the world’s top forwards are. They are all pushing each other to keep scoring more. We are so lucky to be watching them at the same time.”
The Ageless Icons
Messi, now 39, remains the talisman for an Argentina side that began the tournament as one of the favourites. His club career at Inter Miami has shown no signs of decline, while his international performances continue to defy his advancing years.
Ronaldo, 41, is still a central figure for Portugal and has maintained his astonishing goal‑scoring rate at Al-Nassr. Hayes sees no reason why either superstar should be contemplating retirement.
“I also believe, because of the skill set required to be a world‑class, modern‑day finisher, we are going to see more and more playing into their 40s, so much so that it may be possible that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could go to another World Cup,” she added.
A New Normal for Longevity
Advances in sports science, nutrition and recovery have already extended careers across the game, but Hayes suggests the defining factor is the way the modern forward is schooled. The demand for intelligent movement, spatial awareness and precise technique means a player’s football brain can compensate for any natural physical decline.
The record‑breaking trajectories of Messi and Ronaldo have already rewritten the history books, but if Hayes is correct, the duo may yet add one final chapter at a tournament that would have seemed impossible a generation ago.
Key Takeaways
- Emma Hayes predicts the World Cup goal record of Just Fontaine (13 goals) will fall this summer due to the current level of elite forwards.
- Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are still performing at a level that could see them play in another World Cup, according to Hayes.
- Modern finishing relies more on technical and tactical intelligence than pure athleticism, extending careers well into a player’s 40s.
- Advances in sports science and player conditioning are supporting this trend across the professional game.
- The 2026 World Cup showcases a collection of veteran strikers who continue to define matches on the biggest stage.
Quick Facts
Player Ages: Lionel Messi (39), Cristiano Ronaldo (41) – both key men for their nations at the 2026 World Cup.
Just Fontaine Record: 13 goals at the 1958 World Cup – a mark that has stood for 68 years.
Club Careers: Messi at Inter Miami; Ronaldo at Al-Nassr – both still scoring regularly at club level.
Expert View: Emma Hayes, USWNT head coach, believes the skill set of modern finishers will see more players thrive into their 40s.
