Neymar has confirmed that his 16-year career with Brazil’s national team is over, saying he will not return to wear the yellow shirt. The 34-year-old made the announcement after Santos won in the Copa Sudamericana, speaking to Brazilian media and Globo. He had previously signalled his departure after Brazil lost to Norway in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup.

In the interview, Neymar said his journey with the national team had ended and that he had given everything for Brazil, but no longer wanted to continue. Since making his debut against the United States in 2010, he played 130 international matches, scoring 80 goals and providing 58 assists. His goal total makes him Brazil’s all-time leading scorer.

Neymar played in four World Cups but did not win the tournament. His major achievements with Brazil included the 2013 Confederations Cup and helping the country win its first Olympic football gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics. His World Cup campaigns included an injury in 2014, defeat to Belgium in 2018, a dramatic exit against Croatia in 2022, and the 2026 loss to Norway. He intends to continue his club career with boyhood club Santos.