The Only Two Players Older Than Cristiano Ronaldo Still Playing in Europe’s Big Leagues
Cristiano Ronaldo turns 41 today, a milestone that highlights not only his longevity but also the remarkable resilience of a select few footballers who continue performing at the highest levels despite advancing age. While Ronaldo has shifted his career to Saudi Arabia, chasing an extraordinary goal tally away from Europe’s limelight, two players older than him still lace up their boots in the continent’s prestigious top five leagues. These veteran footballers, Dante and Santi Cazorla, exemplify passion, dedication, and an enduring love for the beautiful game.
Dante: The Unyielding Brazilian Defender at 42
Dante, the seasoned Brazilian center-back, stands as one of football’s most impressive longevity stories. Having celebrated his 42nd birthday in October, he remains an integral squad member for OGC Nice in France’s Ligue 1. His presence on the pitch has gradually shifted from being a first-choice player to more of a mentor and leader within the squad, leveraging years of experience to guide younger teammates.
Despite the natural physical limitations that come with age, Dante has appeared in eight matches this season across Ligue 1 and the Europa League, starting in five of them. His role increasingly balances between on-field contributions and off-field wisdom, making him an invaluable asset for the team dynamic.
What makes Dante’s continued career especially admirable is his ability to bounce back from serious injuries, notably suffering a cruciate ligament tear at the age of 37—a setback that often ends players’ careers. Instead, he recovered and continued competing for more than five years after that injury, a testament to his dedication and fitness regime. In interviews, Dante has expressed his ongoing enthusiasm for football, saying, “I’ve been a professional for 22 years now and I’m still motivated. That will is still there, simply because I love football.” This love is what keeps him going when many others would have retired long ago.
Santi Cazorla: The Midfield Maestro’s Remarkable Comeback
Another remarkable veteran is Santi Cazorla, who, at 40, continues to defy predictions of an early retirement. Widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted and loved midfielders of his generation, Cazorla’s career journey is almost a fairy tale of resilience and revival. His trajectory includes a high-profile stint at Arsenal, followed by a renaissance spell at Villarreal, and then a surprising but heartfelt return to his boyhood club Real Oviedo in Spain’s Segunda División.
Cazorla’s professional journey nearly ended prematurely due to severe injuries that jeopardized his playing future. However, his determination and love for the sport saw him not only make a comeback but also help steer Oviedo to the brink of a return to La Liga, ending a 24-year absence. Speaking candidly about his decision to rejoin Oviedo, he explained to The Guardian: “I would play for free but you’re not allowed. They made a good offer. My wife said: ‘No, no, you’re not going to Oviedo to earn, you’re going home to enjoy it, to help, to give.’”
In fact, Cazorla took a unique approach to his contract, accepting the minimum salary and agreeing that 10% of shirt sales would go to the club’s academy, reflecting his deep commitment to supporting the club beyond just his performances on the pitch.
The return to La Liga has been challenging for Oviedo, with managerial changes and limited goal-scoring, but Cazorla remains a catalyst. Even when the current manager Guillermo Almada initially hesitated to use the veteran, Cazorla’s late substitute appearance in a recent match inspired a crucial 1-0 victory over Girona—a win that could be vital in their fight against relegation. His influence, both as a player and a veteran leader, continues to resonate with teammates and fans alike.
What These Players Teach Us About Longevity in Football
The stories of Dante and Santi Cazorla underscore a broader lesson about longevity at the elite football level: it’s not just about physical ability but also mindset, adaptability, and passion. Both players have managed to adapt their game to aging bodies, transitioning into roles that maximize their experience and tactical intelligence rather than sheer athleticism.
For younger players watching, their careers provide inspiration—not only in terms of length but also the grace and humility with which they’ve handled the inevitable challenges and setbacks of professional football.
Conclusion
While Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, remains a global superstar, it’s fascinating to spotlight the two remarkable footballers who have surpassed him in age yet continue to compete in Europe’s top leagues. Dante and Santi Cazorla represent the enduring spirit of football, showing that age is not necessarily a barrier when accompanied by dedication, love for the game, and professional resilience. As we celebrate Ronaldo’s birthday and remarkable career, it’s worth appreciating these other pioneers of longevity who enrich European football with their presence and example.
