Neymar's Career and Future Plans
Brazilian superstar Neymar has indicated he may retire from professional football in the summer of 2026. His primary objective is to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and he has stated that if he is not selected for the Brazilian national team for that tournament, he will call time on his career. The 32-year-old is currently recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, which he underwent in December. This injury history is a significant factor as he aims for one last major tournament.
Neymar made his debut for Brazil in 2010 and has since earned 128 caps, scoring 79 goals. His last appearance for the Seleção was in October 2023. Throughout his international career, Neymar has participated in three World Cups:
- 2014
- 2018
- 2022
His best finish was fourth place in 2014. He also won the FIFA Confederations Cup with Brazil in 2013.
The 2026 World Cup and Brazil's New Coach
Brazil has been drawn into Group C for the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Their opening match is scheduled for June 13 against Morocco. In May 2023, the national team was taken over by Carlo Ancelotti, marking the Italian manager's first experience coaching a national side. As a player, Ancelotti won a bronze medal at the 1990 World Cup.
Therefore, Neymar continues to prepare for what could be his final major sporting objective in 2026. Participation in the World Cup would represent a crucial milestone not only for him personally but also for a Brazilian team eager to reclaim its status as a global powerhouse. His ongoing recovery from injury will be pivotal in determining his chances of selection and could significantly impact Brazil's overall performance at the tournament.