Roberto Carlos Withdraws from Soccer Aid 2024 at Stamford Bridge
In a surprising turn of events, Roberto Carlos, the legendary Brazilian and former Real Madrid left-back, has pulled out of the highly anticipated Soccer Aid 2024 match. The event, set to take place at Stamford Bridge, had been eagerly awaited by fans and participants alike. Carlos, who is 51 years old, confirmed his decision to withdraw just hours before the event was scheduled to kick off. The news was delivered via his social media channels, where he wished the best of luck to all the players involved and urged fans to continue their support and donations to UNICEF.
The timing of Carlos's withdrawal has undoubtedly left many fans disappointed. His participation in Soccer Aid over the years has been a highlight for many, with his expert skills and iconic presence on the pitch. Carlos has been a part of the Soccer Aid event multiple times, including years 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Notably, he helped the World XI team secure a victory at West Ham’s London Stadium in 2022.
While the exact reason for his withdrawal remains unknown, the impact of his absence will certainly be felt among the World XI squad, which boasts an impressive lineup for the 2024 event. This year, the World XI team includes renowned names such as Eden Hazard, John Obi Mikel, Patrice Evra, Michael Essien, Petr Cech, and Alessandro Del Piero. Despite Carlos's absence, the talent within the team remains strong and they will undoubtedly strive to deliver an excellent performance.
Impact on Soccer Aid and Team Dynamics
Soccer Aid, which originated in 2006 by founder Robbie Williams, has grown into a significant annual event, raising an impressive £90 million for UNICEF over the years. The event features a mix of former professional players and celebrities, divided into two teams: World XI and England. The event has captured the hearts of many, not just for its entertaining matches but also for its philanthropic impact. The World XI team has an admirable track record, having won the event seven times. Meanwhile, the England team has secured victory four times, with the most recent win for the World XI being a 4-2 triumph at Old Trafford.
With Carlos pulling out last minute, the team dynamics for the World XI could face some unrest. However, the presence of other legends and noted players like Eden Hazard, famous for his time at Chelsea, and Petr Cech, a goalkeeping legend, offers a reassuring balance of skill and experience. Fans are hopeful that these experienced players can fill the void left by Carlos’s absence and lead their team to victory.
England Team's Preparations and Notable Players
On the other side, the England team is not short of talent either. The squad includes notable football personalities such as Jill Scott, Jermain Defoe, Karen Carney, Gary Cahill, and Theo Walcott. Aside from these seasoned players, a mix of celebrities will contribute to the exciting and unpredictable nature of the match. The format of Soccer Aid has always ensured a blend of competitive spirit and entertainment, drawing large crowds and significant media attention each year.
The presence of such diverse talent across both teams ensures that the event remains exciting and engaging, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Despite the late change in lineup, the anticipation surrounding the match continues to build, with many looking forward to seeing how the teams will adapt and perform under the bright lights of Stamford Bridge.
The Spirit of Soccer Aid and Its Philanthropic Mission
At its core, Soccer Aid is not just about the match itself, but the significant funds it raises for UNICEF. This charitable aspect plays a central role in the event's success, inspiring players and fans alike to contribute to a cause greater than the game. The involvement of high-profile football legends and celebrities helps amplify this message, drawing attention from a global audience.
Since its inception, Soccer Aid has been synonymous with community support, philanthropy, and the universal love for football. Roberto Carlos, even in his absence, reiterated this by encouraging donations to UNICEF, showcasing the spirit and mission of the event. As fans gear up to watch their favorite stars, they also play an active role in supporting children worldwide, making Soccer Aid a unique and impactful event in the football calendar.
Looking Forward to the Match
Despite the last-minute withdrawal of Roberto Carlos, the event promises to deliver excitement, skillful play, and a heartfelt mission. The players from both teams are poised to give their best on the field, knowing that their efforts contribute to a cause that transcends football. The stage is set at Stamford Bridge, and fans everywhere are ready to witness another memorable chapter in the Soccer Aid legacy.
The hope is that this year's Soccer Aid will once again prove the power of football to unite and make a difference, continuing its tradition of entertaining fans while raising crucial funds for UNICEF.
Sihle Tana
I am a journalist with a passion for covering daily news in Africa. My work has taken me across the continent, reporting on significant events and stories that impact communities. I strive to bring insightful and comprehensive news coverage to my readers.
This is such a bummer, but honestly, Roberto Carlos leaving at the last minute doesn't surprise me. He's been playing this game longer than most of us have been alive. Let's just hope the World XI still brings the heat without him. Football's bigger than any one player, even legends.
I'm so sad!! He was going to do that free kick that still gives me chills!!
Of course he withdrew. The man's 51. He's one knee injury away from becoming a walking Wikipedia entry on 2000s left-backs. The real tragedy? The World XI now has to rely on Hazard's ego and Cech's cold stare to carry the team. Pathetic.
Actually, the World XI lineup is still stacked. Hazard's dribbling, Mikel's control, Del Piero's vision-Carlos was iconic, sure, but this team doesn't need him to dominate. They've got more than enough class to make up for it.
Let me tell you something-Roberto Carlos wasn't just a player, he was a force of nature. That free kick against France? That was pure magic. But you know what? Football is about more than one man. The World XI team has heart, they have legacy, they have passion. And when they step on that pitch at Stamford Bridge, they're not just playing for a trophy-they're playing for every kid who ever dreamed of being a legend. So let's not mourn, let's elevate. The spirit of Soccer Aid is alive, and it doesn't need a single name to shine.
Even without Roberto Carlos, the love behind this event is still so strong 💛 Let's all keep donating to UNICEF and cheer for everyone out there-every player, every volunteer, every fan. This is about more than goals, it's about hope.
This is why I hate charity matches. It's all performative. Carlos pulled out because he knew he'd look like a relic next to Hazard. And now they're pretending it's 'about the cause' to cover up how hollow this whole thing is.
I don't get the hype. It's just old guys kicking a ball. The charity angle is just a PR stunt. I'd rather watch a real match.
Hey, I just wanted to say-don't let the negativity get to you. Soccer Aid has raised over $100 million for kids in need. That's real impact. And yeah, Carlos won't be there, but think of all the kids watching who'll see Hazard or Cech and say, 'I want to be like that.' That's the magic. Keep donating, keep sharing. You're part of something bigger.
bruh why even care? its just a charity game lol. carlos prob got tired of running. he's 51 for real??
The beauty of Soccer Aid isn't in the perfect tackles or the iconic free kicks-it's in the fact that grown men who once ruled stadiums are now playing for children who'll never have the chance to wear a jersey. Roberto Carlos's absence is a loss for spectacle, but not for spirit. His message to donate speaks louder than any goal ever could. The real victory isn't on the scoreboard; it's in the lives changed because people chose to care.
I bet he got a better offer from Netflix. 'Roberto Carlos: The Last Free Kick' premieres next month. This was all a stunt. The World XI team is just a prop now. They're not even trying anymore.
It's interesting how people treat Soccer Aid like it's the World Cup. It's a charity exhibition. Carlos's withdrawal is unfortunate, but the event's purpose-raising money for UNICEF-remains unchanged. The real stars are the kids who benefit, not the retired players.
While the absence of Mr. Carlos is undoubtedly regrettable from a sporting perspective, one must not overlook the enduring integrity of the event's philanthropic mission. The continued participation of other luminaries, coupled with the global outpouring of support for UNICEF, ensures that the fundamental purpose of this gathering remains both noble and intact.
carlos out? wow. hope the world xi still win. i just wanna see hazard do that spin move again
This is all staged. Carlos didn't 'withdraw'-he was told to. The UNICEF partnership is a front. The real goal is to push a new FIFA video game. Look at the timing-right before the trailer drops. They're using nostalgia to sell controllers.
He's 51. He's a statue. Let him rest. The game doesn't need him anymore.