Brazilian superstar Neymar has suggested that the 2026 season could mark the end of his career. However, he has made one priority clear. He wants one final opportunity to represent Brazil at the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to Caz TV, the 34-year-old admitted uncertainty about his future beyond next year. He explained that he now approaches his career one season at a time. “I don’t know what will happen from now on,” Neymar said during the interview. He added that retirement could become a serious consideration by December.
Nevertheless, he emphasised that the current year carries immense significance. “This year is very important, not only for Santos, but also for the Brazilian national team,” he stated. Therefore, his immediate focus remains on regaining full fitness and earning selection.
Return to Santos and Career Crossroads
Neymar recently returned to his boyhood club Santos after nearly 12 years. He originally left Santos to join Barcelona, where he achieved global stardom. Subsequently, he moved to Paris Saint-Germain before spending a brief period at Saudi club Al Hilal.
However, injuries repeatedly disrupted his rhythm during those spells. As a result, questions about his long-term future have intensified. Santos extended his contract until December 2026. Even so, uncertainty still surrounds how long he will continue playing professionally.
At 34, Neymar stands at a critical stage of his career. While his technical ability remains undeniable, maintaining physical consistency has proven difficult. Consequently, discussions about retirement have grown louder.
Ongoing Injury Struggles
Fitness has become Neymar’s greatest challenge in recent years. Since January 2025, recurring injuries have significantly limited his appearances. He has played 29 matches during that period, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists.
However, he has also spent nearly 200 days sidelined due to various setbacks. A serious knee injury required surgery and forced him into a lengthy recovery phase. That disruption once again interrupted his momentum.
Although he has recently returned to action, building sustained form remains difficult. At this stage of his career, every injury demands greater recovery time. Therefore, maintaining peak condition before the World Cup becomes essential.
Brazil’s World Cup Ambitions
Despite these challenges, Neymar continues to hold immense importance for Brazil. He remains the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances. That record underlines his historic contribution to the national side.
Nevertheless, Brazil has entered a new phase under head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Younger attackers such as Raphinha and Rodrygo have stepped into prominent roles. Consequently, competition for places has intensified ahead of the 2026 tournament.
Reports indicate that Ancelotti has not ruled out Neymar’s inclusion. However, he has reportedly set a clear condition. Neymar must prove that he is physically capable of performing at the highest level. There will be no special treatment.
The Road to 2026
Brazil has been drawn in Group C alongside Haiti, Scotland and Morocco. Therefore, expectations remain high for a strong campaign. If Neymar regains full fitness at Santos, he could add experience and creativity to the squad.
However, time remains limited. He must demonstrate both durability and match sharpness over the coming months. Consequently, his performances at club level will heavily influence selection decisions.
Neymar’s own words suggest that he understands the stakes. He recognises that the 2026 season could define his legacy. While retirement looms as a possibility, one final World Cup appearance could offer a fitting conclusion.
Ultimately, his story remains unfinished. If he overcomes his physical struggles, he may yet script a memorable final chapter in Brazil’s colours.
