Neymar Hints at International Retirement After Brazil’s FIFA World Cup Exit
Sports Corresponden: Imran Sohail
Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer Neymar Jr. has indicated that his international football career may have come to an end following Brazil’s exit from the FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old shared his thoughts on his future with the national team after Santos secured a 4-2 victory over Universidad Central in the Copa Sudamericana.
Speaking to reporters, Neymar reflected on his journey with Brazil, saying he feels satisfied with what he achieved while representing his country.
“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 for the yellow jersey. But I don’t think I want it anymore,” Neymar said.
His remarks came after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on July 5.
Neymar came on as a substitute during the match and scored a stoppage-time penalty, but Brazil was unable to overturn the deficit, resulting in the team’s earliest World Cup exit since 1990.
Following the match, Neymar also suggested that it may have been his final appearance for the national side.
“I tried, I tried. Now it’s over,” he said.
Brazil’s elimination extended the team’s wait for a record sixth FIFA World Cup title.
Over the course of his international career, Neymar represented Brazil in four FIFA World Cups, scoring 80 goals and providing 58 assists in 130 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading goalscorer.
At club level, Neymar enjoyed successful spells with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, while his major international achievement with Brazil remains the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup victory.
