Neymar confirmed the end of his 16-year journey with the Brazil national team, while also rejecting allegations of bullying young players at Santos.
In an interview following Santos’ 4-2 victory over Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana on the morning of July 29, the former Barcelona forward affirmed: “My time with the national team has come to an end. I made history and I am very happy. I gave my blood, sweat, and my entire life for the green and yellow jersey. I always fought with all my heart, but now it is over.”
The decision marks the conclusion of Neymar’s 16-year journey with the Brazil national team. At the 2026 World Cup, Neymar burst into tears right on the pitch at MetLife Stadium after Brazil lost to Norway in the round of 16. Despite scoring from the penalty spot in the closing minutes, he could not save his team from defeat and exited the tournament in tears.
Alongside his announcement of parting ways with the national team, Neymar also refuted reports claiming he criticized and insulted two young players, Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias, following the 2-2 draw with Chapecoense on July 26. Some sources alleged that Neymar disparaged his younger teammates’ skill level, even sarcastically claiming they would be playing in a lower division next season.
Neymar affirmed: “It is sad and frustrating. That information spread very quickly, but it is not true. After the match, I only demanded that the entire team play with more focus. We cannot afford to throw away a victory like that. As captain, I have every right to speak up.”
Despite off-field controversies, Neymar remains an important figure at Santos. Coming off the bench, he helped his side defeat Universidad Central 4-2 to secure a ticket to the Copa Sudamericana round of 16.
