Neymar hints at Brazil international retirement after World Cup exit

East Rutherford – Neymar suggested his international career with Brazil has concluded following the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The Selecao were defeated 2-1 by Norway in the Round of 16.

Neymar, who came on as a late substitute, scored a penalty in injury time. However, it was only a consolation goal as Erling Haaland's brace secured Norway's victory. The 34-year-old is Brazil's all-time leading scorer. Ironically, he also scored his first international goal at the same stadium in 2010.

"I have tried and tried. Now it's over. It started here and it ends here," Neymar told Globo Esporte after the match. Following the final whistle, Neymar was seen weeping and was comforted by teammates, fueling speculation about his future with the national squad.

Neymar has reportedly returned to his former club Santos after struggling with injuries in recent years. He was a surprise inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad. Injuries caused him to miss Brazil's first two group stage matches, but he played in their 3-0 win over Scotland in Miami. That match marked his first international appearance since October 2023 and his only game in the US before the Norway match that saw Brazil eliminated from the tournament.

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I have tried and tried. Now it's over. It started here and it ends here.