The Digest:
Brazilian football star Neymar has hinted he may retire at the end of 2026, saying he is "living year to year now" after being hampered by persistent injuries. The 34-year-old told Brazilian channel Caze: "I don't know what will happen from now on... It may be that when December comes, I'll want to retire." Neymar returned to his boyhood club Santos in January 2025 from Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal and recently extended his contract until end-2026, but missed the start of the Brazilian season after knee surgery in December. He made his return as a substitute on February 16. Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals hasn't played for the national team since October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee injury against Uruguay. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has not called him up since taking over last May. Neymar hopes to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Key Points:
- Neymar's retirement contemplation signals the likely end of an era for Brazilian football.
- Persistent injuries have limited his impact and raised questions about his longevity.
- Brazil loses its all-time scorer, while Santos gains a legendary figure for its farewell.
- This signals the physical toll of a career spent at the highest level.
- The timing, before the World Cup, adds urgency to his fitness quest.
Sources: AFP, Caze
