Neymar Announces Retirement from International Football After Stellar Career
Neymar's Retirement from International Football
Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading goal-scorer, has officially declared his retirement from international football, concluding a remarkable 16-year journey with the national team. The 34-year-old made this announcement following Santos' 4-2 triumph over Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana.
This decision puts an end to the ongoing speculation regarding his international career, which intensified after Brazil's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brazil's campaign concluded in the Round of 16 after a defeat against Norway, marking Neymar's final appearance for the five-time world champions.
The seasoned forward expressed that he leaves the national team without any regrets, emphasizing that he always gave his utmost effort while representing Brazil.
In a statement reported by Goal.com, Neymar remarked, "My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy. I gave blood and life for the country and always fought for the yellow jersey—but now I don't want to continue this anymore."
This announcement signifies the conclusion of one of the most vibrant international careers in Brazilian football history. Neymar retires as Brazil's top scorer, having participated in several FIFA World Cups, Copa América tournaments, and the Olympics.
Moving forward, Neymar will concentrate entirely on his club career with Santos. He also addressed recent allegations regarding his behavior in the dressing room after a league match.
The former captain refuted these claims, clarifying that his remarks post-match were intended to encourage improved performance from the team. Neymar stated, "The matter is sad and annoying, but it's not my fault. This news reaches a lot of people. After the match, I spoke up, demanded a better performance, and said that we can't show such carelessness. A draw like that cannot be accepted. As captain, I have that right. Lucas Verissimo and Gabigol also spoke to the players."
Despite the surrounding controversies, Neymar played a pivotal role in Santos' victory over Universidad Central, which propelled the Brazilian club into the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, where they will compete against Ecuador's Macará.