Neymar Announces Retirement from Brazil National Team After 2026 World Cup Exit

Neymar has officially retired from the Brazil national football team following their elimination from the 2026 World Cup. After Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Norway in the round of 16, Neymar addressed the media at MetLife Stadium, the same venue where he scored his first and last goals for Brazil. He reflected on his 16-year international career and participation in four World Cups, stating, "It all started here and it ends here. Now it’s over."

The announcement drew emotional reactions from football legends. Roberto Carlos expressed sympathy for Neymar’s tears after the match, praising him as one of Brazil’s greatest players who always gave his all despite occasional doubts from coaches. Carlos emphasized that winning the World Cup is special but does not solely define a player’s legacy, calling Neymar a legend who will be remembered for generations.

In contrast, Zlatan Ibrahimović offered a more nuanced view, acknowledging Neymar as a great player with significant success at clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as with Brazil. However, Ibrahimović suggested there remains a lingering feeling that Neymar could have achieved even more, including potentially winning the Ballon d’Or.

Neymar’s retirement marks the end of an era for Brazil’s national team, closing a chapter on one of its most iconic and influential players.