Neymar has officially confirmed that his tenure with the Brazil national team has concluded following a frustrating 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. The star forward, who had aimed to secure his first World Cup title, saw his journey end prematurely when Brazil was eliminated by Norway in the round of 16. Neymar participated in only two matches during the tournament, both as a substitute, and scored a consolation goal in the 10th minute of second-half stoppage time against Norway.
Following his return to club duties with Santos, where he has appeared in two matches since the World Cup, Neymar addressed his decision with reporters after a 4-2 victory over Universidad Central. He stated that his time with the national team is over, emphasizing that he gave his life, blood, and heart for the yellow jersey, but he no longer wishes to continue. Neymar concludes his international career as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals. Since his senior debut in 2010, he made 130 appearances for the Seleção, trailing only Cafu, who recorded 142 caps. Additionally, he remains the only Brazilian player besides Pele to score at four different World Cups, specifically in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026.
Beyond his retirement announcement, Neymar also addressed recent allegations regarding his behavior in the Santos dressing room. Reports had suggested he insulted teammates Bontempo and Joao Annais following a 2-2 draw with Chapecoense, claiming he mocked their abilities and predicted they would be relegated to the second division. Neymar, who is the all-time top scorer for Santos, dismissed these claims as false and annoying. He clarified that his comments were intended to demand better performance from the team after a disappointing result, asserting his right as captain to hold his teammates to higher standards. He noted that players Lucas Veríssimo and Gabigol also spoke up during the same exchange.
Reports say the winger mocked the youngsters’ playing ability and claimed they would be playing in the second division next season.The 2013 Confederations Cup winner had initially addressed the rumors directly via an Instagram story, saying it was false.“It’s sad and annoying, but it’s not my fault.
You can't go giving away a draw like that, with all due respect to Chapecoense.
