Neymar confirmed he is retiring from the Brazil national football team, saying he no longer wants to play for the country. He made the announcement after Santos’ 4-2 Copa Sudamericana win over Venezuela’s Universidad Central on July 28, 2026 [1, 2, 3].
The 34-year-old Brazil all-time leading scorer with 80 goals and 58 assists in 130 appearances said, "I think my time with the national team has already passed. I made history there, and I’m very happy about it. I experienced a lot there, gave my blood and my life, and always fought and battled for the yellow jersey. But I don’t think I want it anymore" [1].
Neymar last played for Brazil in October 2023 before an injury sidelined him. He returned to play at the 2026 World Cup but Brazil suffered their earliest exit since 1990, losing 2-1 to Norway in the round of 16 on July 5. Neymar scored a stoppage-time penalty in that match and emotionally commented afterward, "I tried, I tried. Now it’s over." [1, 2, 3]
His international career included winning the 2013 Confederations Cup and participation in four World Cups [1, 2].
Following Neymar’s retirement, Brazil’s national team management resumed work with Carlo Ancelotti on July 28. Ancelotti said, "We're going to start putting together a new squad, scouting and trialling young players, but without letting go of some of the players who were with us at the World Cup and who still have a lot to offer the national team" [3].
Ancelotti’s efforts mark the beginning of a new phase for Brazil as they plan to build a squad blending youth and experience after the 2026 World Cup.
