Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Neymar Jr., has strongly hinted that he has retired from international football following Brazil’s disappointing exit from the FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old made the remarks after Santos secured a 4-2 victory over Venezuela’s Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana. Speaking to reporters after the match, Neymar suggested that his journey with the Brazilian national team had come to an end.
Reflecting on his international career, Neymar said he believes his time representing Brazil is over. He said he was proud of everything he achieved with the national team and grateful for the memories he created while wearing the famous yellow jersey.
“I think my time with the national team has already passed. I made history there, and I’m very happy about it. I experienced a lot there, gave my blood and my life, and always fought and battled for the yellow jersey. But I don’t think I want it anymore,” Neymar said.
His comments came weeks after Brazil suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 on July 5, marking the country’s earliest FIFA World Cup exit since 1990. Neymar came off the bench during the match and scored a stoppage-time penalty, but Brazil was unable to avoid elimination.
After the defeat, an emotional Neymar also hinted that it may have been his final appearance for Brazil, saying, “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over.” The result extended Brazil’s wait for a record sixth FIFA World Cup title.
During his international career, Neymar represented Brazil at four FIFA World Cups and became the nation’s all-time leading scorer. He scored 80 goals and provided 58 assists in 130 appearances, cementing his place among Brazil’s greatest footballers.
Although Neymar enjoyed remarkable success at club level with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, his only major senior international trophy with Brazil was the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup. His comments have now raised questions about the future of one of Brazil’s most iconic players.
