Neymar Reveals Potential Retirement by End of Year, Hopes to Make World Cup 2026 Team

Neymar, a veteran forward for the Brazilian national team, has disclosed that he is considering retiring by December after facing ongoing injuries that have significantly impacted his professional career. Currently playing for Santos in the Brazilian league, he has been frequently plagued by injuries, including a knee surgery that caused him to miss the start of the 2026 season. At 34 years old, Neymar stated, 'I don't know what the future holds. I don't know about next year. It's possible I might want to stop playing by December. Right now, I'm living day by day.' However, he still hopes to make the Brazilian national team for what could be his final World Cup, having been absent from national team games since his last appearance in October 2023. Neymar added, 'This is a very important year, not just for Santos, but also for the Brazilian national team and for myself. Of course, I will have to get back on track. I'm proceeding step by step, but I will come back 100% again.'