Neymar Considers Retirement, Brazil’s World Cup Hopes Hang in the Balance

Santos forward Neymar has hinted at a potential retirement from professional football at the end of the current calendar year, casting a shadow over Brazil’s preparations for future international competitions. The 34-year-aged Brazilian superstar revealed his uncertainty about continuing his career, stating he is evaluating his future on a year-by-year basis.

Uncertain Future for the Brazilian Icon

Speaking to Caze TV, Neymar expressed his contemplation of retirement, saying, “I don’t know what will happen from now on. It could be that December arrives and I want to retire. I’m living year by year.” He emphasized the importance of the current year for both Santos and the Brazilian national team, as well as for his personal career trajectory.

World Cup Aspirations and Fitness Concerns

Former Brazil World Cup winner Kleberson has voiced his desire to see Neymar feature in the upcoming World Cup. However, he acknowledged the player’s current fitness challenges. Kleberson told GOAL, “I really, really want to see Neymar at the World Cup. In terms of fitness, he is really behind everyone now – because of the injuries, because the last year he hasn’t had a lot of minutes on the field.”

Neymar’s Unique Talent

Despite fitness concerns, Kleberson believes Neymar’s exceptional talent could still make a significant impact. “The talent that kid has, as soon as he starts to get a good perceive now, gets the good fitness, he can probably support a lot. He will not get into the World Cup at 100 per cent fitness but when the World Cup gets going, especially the way it is now, he can produce well because he is the most talented player that we have in Brazil. Others are at a good level, but nobody can do the stuff this kid can do.”

The Importance of Playing Time

Kleberson stressed the need for Neymar to regain match fitness and consistency. “He needs to get to a good level with fitness, play minutes and stay on the field. When I look at all the Brazilian players, nobody is like him. Okay we can talk about Vini Junior or Raphinha or Estevao, but the things that Neymar can do with a ball, it makes it scary to mark him. Neymar is the closest I have seen to Ronaldinho.”

Neymar’s Career to Date

Currently playing for Santos, Neymar has also represented Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al Hilal throughout his illustrious career. As of February 22, 2026, his career statistics include 179 appearances and 107 goals for Santos, 123 appearances and 68 goals for Barcelona, 112 appearances and 82 goals for Paris Saint-Germain, and 3 appearances for Al Hilal. He has also earned 128 caps for the Brazil national team, scoring 79 goals. Source