Brazilian superstar Neymar has admitted he is considering retirement at the end of 2026.
In an interview with Brazilian online channel Caze, Neymar discussed how he is ‘living year to year,’ considering ending his illustrious career after an ‘important’ season for both club and country.
‘I don’t know what will happen from now on, I don’t know about next year,’ the 34-year-old said.
‘It may be that when December comes, I’ll want to retire. I’m living year to year now.
‘We will see what my heart decides. It depends on what my heart says later in the year.
‘This year is a very important year, not only for Santos, but also for the Brazilian national team, as it’s a World Cup year, and for me too. I wanted to play this season totally 100 percent.’
Returning to his boyhood club Santos in 2025, Neymar risked his career to help the team avoid relegation from Brazil’s Serie A.
Despite requiring surgery on his left knee, the Brazilian played a crucial role down the stretch, providing five goals and an assist in the final four league matches.
Neymar has played in three World Cups with Brazil, but hasn’t featured for the national team since October 2023.
Often criticized for his antics on and off the pitch, Neymar established a brilliant club career, starring for the likes of Santos, FC Barcelona and PSG. Meanwhile, the 34-year-old is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, a mark previously held by legend Pelé (77).
Neymar has a contract with Santos through the end of 2026.