In a recent interview, Brazilian star Neymar has revealed that he is considering retirement at the end of this year, marking the first time he has publicly addressed the issue. This comes as a significant announcement, especially with the World Cup on the horizon, a tournament Neymar is eager to participate in despite his struggle with recurring injuries. As he approaches the latter stages of his career at 34 years of age, the anticipation surrounding his decision is palpable, given his impact on both club and international football.

Neymar, who recently renewed his contract with Santos until the end of 2026, is focused on returning to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery late last year. He made his first appearance of the season with his current club on Sunday, having missed the start of the Brazilian football season due to his recovery. During the interview, Neymar expressed his desire to be at 100% fitness, which led him to miss several matches earlier in the year, reflecting his commitment to the sport even as he contemplates his future.

This year is portrayed as particularly crucial not only for Santos but also for the Brazilian national team and Neymar himself, especially with the World Cup taking place from June 11 to July 19. The conversations around his potential retirement add layers of intrigue to his performances moving forward, as fans and analysts alike consider how his decision will impact both club competitions and national aspirations.