Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar has officially confirmed his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a glittering international career spanning more than 16 years with the five-time FIFA World Cup champions.The 34-year-old announced his decision after helping Santos secure a 4-2 victory over Universidad Central de Venezuela in the Copa Sudamericana, ending weeks of speculation over his future following Brazil’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Brazil’s campaign came to an end in the round of 16 with a 1-2 defeat to Norway, a match which was Neymar’s last appearance in the famous yellow shirt.
Neymar confirms international retirement
Speaking after the Santos win, Neymar made it clear that he no longer intends to represent Brazil.“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 it anymore,” Neymar said after the match, as quoted by Goal.com.The statement comes just weeks after the veteran forward hinted that Norway’s World Cup defeat likely marked the end of his international journey.After that heartbreaking loss, Neymar had said, as quoted by ESPN UK: “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here; I finished here.”Neymar ranks as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, finishing his international career with 80 goals and 59 assists in 130 appearances. His latest international goal came from the penalty spot in stoppage time against Norway, serving only as a consolation after Erling Haaland’s finish ended Brazil’s hopes of lifting a record sixth World Cup title.During his time with the Selecao, Neymar also helped Brazil win the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and captained the nation to Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games, cementing his place among the country’s greatest footballers.
Santos star rejects dressing room criticism
While confirming his international retirement, Neymar also addressed reports that he had criticized and bullied Santos’ young teammates after a recent league match.The former Brazil captain rejected those suggestions, insisting he had only asked for higher standards after a disappointing performance.“It’s sad and annoying, but it’s not my fault. These stories reach a lot of people,” Neymar said.He added: “I spoke after the match, he asked better, and he said we can’t afford to be so careless. You can’t give a draw like that. As captain, I have every right to say that. Lucas Verissimo and Gabigol also spoke with the players.”Despite off-field speculation, Neymar played his part in Santos’ 4-2 win over Central University, helping the Brazilian side book a place in the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16, where they will face Ecuadorian club Macara.