Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr. has officially retired from international football, ending a 16-year spell with the Seleção following Brazil’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old Santos forward confirmed his decision after scoring in his club’s 4-2 victory over Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana playoffs, putting an end to months of speculation about a possible national team return.
“My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life. I always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don’t want to anymore,” Neymar told reporters.
His final appearance for Brazil came in the Round of 16 against Norway, where he converted a stoppage-time penalty in a 2-1 defeat that dashed Brazil’s hopes of a sixth World Cup title.
Neymar departs as Brazil’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer with 80 goals, surpassing Pelé’s record of 77. Since his debut in 2010,
This post was originally published on this site.
