BRASÍLIA (Kashmir English): Brazil star striker Neymar has said that he may retire by the end of 2026.
Last month, the 34-year-old forward extended his contract with his childhood club Santos. He returned to his boyhood club Santos in January 2026 and played a key role in their survival in the Brazilian top flight, scoring five times in their last five matches.
Neymar recently underwent successful knee surgery
Having struggled with injuries in recent seasons, Neymar, however, remains doubtful for participation at the World Cup this year.
“I don’t know what will happen from now on, I don’t know about next year,” Neymar, who recently underwent successful knee surgery, 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.”
“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,” Neymar said.
Neymar has scored 79 goals for his country, the highest by any player, but he has not featured for the national side since October 2023.
Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil manager, has made it clear over the past year that he will only include players who are fully fit for the World Cup, scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
