After parting ways with the Brazil national team at the 2026 World Cup, Neymar is reportedly seriously considering retirement due to mental exhaustion and disappointment.
Neymar experienced a disappointing journey at the 2026 World Cup. The Santos forward played less than 45 minutes throughout the tournament. In the 1-2 defeat against Norway in the round of 16, he came onto the pitch in the 74th minute, scored from the penalty spot but could not help Brazil overturn the situation.
Right after the final whistle, Neymar burst into tears and confirmed the termination of his international career. However, according to UOL, this shock could also cause the former Barcelona and PSG star to close his club career altogether. Currently, Neymar is resting with his family in the US and will make a final decision in the next few days.
Brazilian media stated that Neymar feels he has not received the adequate recognition for his contributions to the Brazil national team. The striker born in 1992 has also gradually lost motivation after many consecutive years of experiencing defeat at World Cups.
Despite being the greatest goalscorer in “Selecao” history with 80 goals, Neymar has never once touched the world gold cup. The 2014 World Cup closed with an injury before Brazil suffered a disastrous 1-7 defeat against Germany. Four years later, the samba land team was eliminated by Belgium in the quarterfinals. Coming to the 2022 World Cup, Neymar scored a masterpiece against Croatia but Brazil fell in the penalty shootout. The sad script continued to repeat at the 2026 World Cup.
Struggling with injuries for three consecutive years has caused Neymar’s career to decline significantly. After an unsuccessful period in Saudi Arabia, he returned to wear the Santos shirt but has not yet been able to find his peak image.
