Santos forward Neymar has indicated he may retire from professional football at the end of 2026, potentially bringing an end to a career marked by both spectacular goals and persistent injury setbacks.
The 34-year-old, who rejoined his boyhood club in January 2025, played a crucial role in securing Santos’s place in the Brazilian top flight, scoring five goals in their final five matches of the season. However, his future participation remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a knee injury. “I don’t know what will happen from now on, I don’t know about next year,” Neymar told Brazilian online channel Caze on Friday. “It may be that when December comes, I’ll want to retire. I’m living year to year now.”
The potential retirement comes as Neymar aims to regain full fitness in time for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19. He has scored a record 79 goals for the Brazilian national team, but has not played for Seleção since October 2023.
Brazil’s national team manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has previously stated his intention to select only fully fit players for the tournament. Neymar recently underwent knee surgery, and his recovery will be closely monitored as he attempts to prove his fitness to Ancelotti.
Neymar described 2026 as a “very important year,” not only for Santos and the Brazilian national team, but also for his own career. The forward acknowledged the challenges posed by his recent injury history, suggesting a pragmatic approach to his future. “This year is a very important year… and for me too,” he said.
The possibility of Neymar’s retirement has prompted discussion about his legacy as one of Brazil’s most gifted, yet often-fragile, footballers. His return to Santos was seen by many as a final opportunity to recapture the form that made him a global star.
