The former soccer stars boast massive followings even after they hang up their boots. Remaining in the spotlight, they often participate in charity matches and feature in award ceremonies. These renowned figures serve as ambassadors for the game worldwide, leveraging their influence.
The Elite Players Group (EPG) is an organization formed by retired soccer icons and elite players, aiming to extend their influence beyond their playing days. They came together to announce the EPG Cup last year, a tournament that will feature players over 35 years old representing their respective nations.
What is over-35s World Cup? details explained
The EPG Group has launched a new venture called the EPG Cup. This tournament will host eight FIFA World Champion nations—England, Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Spain, Uruguay, and Italy. The captains of each country are among the esteemed founders of this group, pioneering this initiative.
Eligible to participate are retired players (35) who have played internationally for their respective countries and registered at least 100 top-division appearances across the top leagues. The tournament will follow an 11-a-side format, but the duration of each game will be 70 minutes, featuring a roll-on, roll-off substitution rule.
According to The Daily Mail report, the Elite Players Group’s Over-35 World Cup is scheduled for this summer in England. The venues for the matches are still being finalized but are expected to be in Premier League stadiums. The competition is set to take place in early June 2024.
The seven matches will be organized after the UEFA Champions League final on June 1st. The fixtures are scheduled for June 4th and 5th, with the semi-finals set to be played on June 8th, before the commencement of UEFA Euro 2024 in mid-June. Later in the month, the Copa America 2024 will also take place, ensuring an eventful summer filled with exciting football events.
Ronaldinho, Ozil, Henry to feature in the new over-35s World Cup
In the upcoming Over-35s World Cup, also known as the EGC Cup, some of the biggest icons of the game will represent their national teams. Notable Premier League stars such as Thierry Henry, Frank Lampard, and Mesut Özil will participate.
Notable international soccer legends such as Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Marco Materazzi, Kaká, Fabio Cannavaro, David Villa, Carles Puyol, and Francesco Totti will also be among the stars participating.
England will be captained by Steve McManaman, joined by Ballon d’Or winner Michael Owen, Chelsea legends Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard, and former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand for the Three Lions. David Villa and Carles Puyol will represent Spain.
For Die Mannschaft, Mesut Özil will join forces with Sami Khedira. The Azzurri will feature Fabio Cannavaro, Marco Materazzi, and Francesco Totti. Brazil’s lineup includes Kaká and Ronaldinho, while Thierry Henry and Marcel Desailly will be representing two-time World Champions France.
