Brazilian superstar, Neymar, has officially confirmed his retirement from international football, weeks after indicating that the 2026 FIFA World Cup marked the end of his journey with the national team.
The 34-year-old, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals, had earlier stated that his international career was over following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 on July 5.
Despite calls from his father, Neymar da Silva Santos Sr., urging him to continue representing Brazil, the forward has now made his decision final.
Speaking to reporters after coming off the bench in Santos’ 4-2 Copa Sudamericana victory over Venezuela’s Universidad Central on Tuesday, Neymar said, “I think my time with the national team has already passed. I made history there, and I’m very happy about it.
“I experienced a lot there, gave my blood and my life, and always fought and battled for the yellow jersey. But I don’t think I want anymore.”
Neymar has not featured for Brazil since suffering a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee during an international match in October 2023.
Following an impressive return to form with Santos, where he remains under contract until 2026, the veteran attacker earned a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
However, Brazil endured their earliest World Cup elimination since 1990 after losing to Norway at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Neymar scored a late penalty to reduce the deficit before collapsing to the pitch in tears at the final whistle.
Reflecting on the emotional moment, he told Globo, “I tried, I tried. Now, it’s over.”
“I started here; I finished here.”
Neymar’s retirement confirmation coincided with Carlo Ancelotti’s return to duties as Brazil head coach.
The Italian tactician met with officials from the Brazilian Football Confederation in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday to begin preparations for the team’s upcoming fixtures.
Brazil are scheduled to play three international friendlies beginning in September, followed by another FIFA international window in November before the South American qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup get underway next year.
Speaking about his plans, Ancelotti told the CBF, “We’re going to start putting together a new squad, scouting and trialling young players, but without letting go of some of the players who were with us at the World Cup and who still have a lot to offer the national team.”
