Neymar built one of the greatest careers football has ever witnessed. The forward dazzled supporters with his extraordinary skill and remarkable creativity throughout a glittering career.
He won major honours at club level, became one of the defining players of his generation and established himself as a football icon.
Last season also showed his determination to keep competing. After returning to Santos following an injury-hit spell at Al-Hilal, Neymar adapted his game into a deeper creative role.
Careful management of his minutes helped him contribute six goals and two assists during the 2026 campaign while continuing to display his outstanding technical quality.
That form earned him one final opportunity on football’s biggest stage. Despite battling a calf injury, Neymar returned for the 2026 World Cup and made two substitute appearances.
His final international contribution came at MetLife Stadium, where he converted a stoppage-time penalty in a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16.
That emotional night marked the end of an unforgettable era. Manager Carlo Ancelotti has now confirmed that Neymar will not play for Brazil again after the World Cup.
The Italian coach also revealed that Casemiro and Danilo have reached the end of their international careers. Ancelotti told Globo:
“I think that this World Cup brings a generation of very important players to an end. Starting with Neymar, also Danilo and Casemiro, all of these players who were over 30 at the World Cup.”
Neymar later reaffirmed his own decision after Santos’ victory over Universidad Central. He 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.”
However, Neymar is not retiring from professional football. Instead, the 34-year-old will continue his club career with Santos.
However, he brings the curtain down on an international journey that produced 130 appearances and established him as his country’s all-time leading goalscorer.
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