Experience plays a crucial role at the Euros, and several legendary players have demonstrated this on Europe’s biggest stage. From veteran goalkeepers to long-serving midfielders, ahead of UEFA EURO 2024 let us take at the oldest players ever to compete in the European Championship.
Oldest Players to Play in the UEFA Euro
Germany’s Lothar Matthaus, at 39 years and 92 days, ended his illustrious career at Euro 2000, making him the oldest outfield player in Euro history. Denmark’s Morten Olsen, at 38 years and 308 days, became the oldest player in Euro history in 1988 before briefly coming out of retirement.
England’s Peter Shilton, at 38 years and 271 days, played his last Euro match in 1988. Maarten Stekelenburg, at 38 years and 279 days, reclaimed his spot as the Netherlands’ goalkeeper in Euro 2020 after nearly five years without a cap. Now, Cristiano Ronaldo is set to join this elite group as he captains Portugal at Euro 2024, adding his name to an illustrious list of football veterans.
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List of Oldest Players to Play in the UEFA Euro
| Name | Country | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Gabor Kiraly | Hungary | 40 years, 86 days |
| Lothar Matthäus | Germany | 39 years, 91 days |
| Morten Olsen | Denmark | 38 years, 308 days |
| Maarten Stekelenburg | Netherlands | 38 years, 279 days |
| Peter Shilton | England | 38 years, 271 days |
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