Neymar suggests potential retirement following World Cup

Ex Brazil skipper Neymar revealed he is considering hanging up his boots by years end due to ongoing injury woes though he aims to feature in the World Cup beforehand.

The once Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain forward rejoined his childhood team Santos in January 2025 having left Saudi outfit Al-Hilal.

Following a season plagued by injuries he agreed to prolong his deal through to the close of 2026 yet he sat out the openings of Brazils campaign in January owing to knee operation in late December.

"I am uncertain about the future I am unclear on next year" the forward shared with Brazilian web channel Caze. "Come December I might decide to step away. At present I am taking things one year at a time."

He reappeared as a halftime substitute during a Sao Paulo league fixture on February 16 eleven days post his 34th birthday.

"Naturally I aimed to rejoin and support my squad as effectively as possible yet I chose to take it steady ensuring a full recovery" he explained.

Neymar holds the record as Brazils top goalscorer with 79 strikes surpassing Pele by two yet he has been absent from international duty since a major knee issue in October 2023 versus Uruguay.

Carlo Ancelotti has omitted Neymar from selections since assuming the Brazil managerial role last May.

"The coming year holds great significance not just for Santos and the Brazil side with the World Cup on the horizon but personally for me as well" Neymar noted. "It presents a major test."