Neymar Hints 2026 Could Mark End of His Career as Injury Struggles Persist

Brazilian superstar Neymar has revealed that 2026 could be his final year as a professional footballer, as he continues to battle recurring injury problems.

The former Paris Saint-Germain forward, who rose to global fame as a teenage sensation at Santos FC before sealing a high-profile move to FC Barcelona, recently turned 34. However, his thirties have been heavily impacted by ankle, knee, and hamstring injuries that have limited his playing time.

Neymar returned to his boyhood club Santos in 2024, with his current contract set to expire in 2026. Speaking to CazeTV via UOL, the forward admitted he is uncertain about what lies ahead.

“I don’t know what will happen from now on. It could be that December arrives and I want to retire. I’m living year by year,” he said. “There’s this year, which is very important not only for Santos, but for the Brazilian national team, and for me as well.”

The Brazilian star is hoping to earn a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, the national team coach has not publicly commented on Neymar’s chances of selection.

Since returning to action, Neymar admitted he has been cautious in order to avoid further setbacks.

“I wanted to return to playing this season at 100%, which is why I held back on some games,” he explained. “I know a lot of people talk nonsense and don’t know what it’s like day-to-day, but I have to endure it. Santos made a very good plan in this regard.”

He added that while he is pleased with his recent performances, he still needs time to regain full match fitness. “I’ll live year by year. I don’t know what will happen from now on — it will be up to my heart. It’s one day at a time,” he said.

Meanwhile, Neymar’s comments come shortly after former Brazil teammate Philippe Coutinho announced his departure from CR Vasco da Gama, citing mental exhaustion.

In an emotional Instagram statement, Coutinho said he returned to Vasco out of love for the club but decided to step away to prioritise his mental health.

“Being judged by countless people for something that isn’t part of my character is extremely difficult,” he wrote. “At that moment, I realised that my time at the club was over, and I didn’t return to prioritise my mental health. That hurts a lot.”

Both players’ remarks highlight the physical and emotional pressures faced by elite footballers as they navigate the later stages of their careers.