Neymar confirms retirement from Brazil national team

Brazilian football icon Neymar has announced his retirement from the national team, signaling the end of an era for the Seleção. The 34-year-old confirmed his decision following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating, "My time with the national team is over." He reflected on his career, saying, "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."

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My time with the national team is over.

Neymar's announcement comes after a period of intense scrutiny. He used the post-match interview to directly address and refute recent reports accusing him of bullying younger teammates, specifically Gabriel Bontempo and Joao Ananias. "It’s sad and annoying, but it’s not my fault. These stories reach a lot of people," Neymar stated, expressing frustration with the accusations.

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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.

He clarified that his comments following a 2-2 draw with Chapecoense were not intended as personal attacks but as a captain's call for improved performance. "I spoke after the match, demanded better and said we couldn’t afford to be so slack. You can’t go giving away a draw like that, with all due respect to Chapecoense," he explained. Neymar emphasized his right as captain to voice concerns, noting that teammates Lucas Veríssimo and Gabigol also spoke up. The footballer recently assisted his club in a 4-2 victory against Universidad Central.

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It’s sad and annoying, but it’s not my fault. These stories reach a lot of people.