A Possible Farewell on the Horizon
Brazilian star Neymar da Silva has, for the first time, admitted he might end his football career by the end of this year, just months before the World Cup, hoping to participate despite recurring injuries in recent seasons.
In an interview with the online channel "Kaz TV," which shared excerpts on social media, Neymar (34) spoke of a possible retirement plan, even after renewing his contract with his boyhood club Santos through 2026.
Neymar returned to action with Santos last Sunday after months out following left-knee surgery in late December, which kept him from the Brazilian league's January start. He said, “I wanted to return this season at 100%,” explaining his absence from some matches.
World Cup and Personal Ambitions
He added that it's an important year not only for Santos but also for the Brazilian national team and for himself, with the World Cup approaching (June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada).
Although absent from the national team since October 2023, Neymar remains Brazil's all‑time top scorer with 79 goals and recently scored five goals in five matches for Santos, boosting the club's league ambitions.
In the interview, Neymar said, “I don't know what will happen from now on, and maybe in December I'll want to retire. I’m living year by year.”
Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti noted that World Cup selections this year would be limited to players in full fitness, making Neymar's participation uncertain for now.
Ultimately, the world watches as Neymar navigates a potential farewell while Santos leans on their star.
Punchline 1: If Neymar retires, the only thing that will be aimed is his calendar—finally a shot that doesn’t miss the target.
Punchline 2: And if he keeps playing, the world will need a sniper’s precision to keep up with his press conferences—every quote hits the mark, sometimes before the ball does.
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