Neymar Announces His Retirement from International Football
The forward said he retires with no regrets and gave it all with the national team despite facing many disappointments
XtraTime Newsdesk: Neymar, Brazil's all-time greatest scorer, has formally announced his retirement from international football, capping a 16-year stint with the national team. The 34-year-old provided an update on the decision after Santos defeated Venezuela's Universidad Central 4-2 in the Copa Sudamericana, putting an end to speculation over his international future following Brazil's departure from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brazil's campaign ended in the Round of 16 after a defeat to Norway, with Neymar making what would be his final appearance for the five-time world champions.
The forward said he retires with no regrets and gave it all with the national team despite facing many disappointments.
"My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life, I always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don't want to anymore," Neymar said after the match as quoted by Goal.com
The announcement ends one of the most decorated international careers in Brazilian football. Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, having represented the country in several FIFA World Cups, Copa America tournaments, and Olympic events.
His focus has now switched entirely to his club career with Santos, where he has addressed recent claims that he insulted and threatened younger players in the dressing room during a league match.
The former Brazil captain dismissed those rumors stating that he was only encouraging the younger players.
"It is sad and annoying, but it is not my fault. These stories reach a lot of people," Neymar said.
"I spoke after the match, demanded better, and said we could not afford to be so careless. You cannot give away a draw like that. As captain, I have every right to say that. Lucas Verissimo and Gabigol also spoke to the players," he added.
Despite the off-field speculation, Neymar played his part in Santos' 4-2 win over Universidad Central, helping the Brazilian club advance to the Round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, where they will face Ecuadorian side Macara.