‘I’m living year to year now’: Neymar says he may retire by end of 2026

Guardian Sport

by Reuters

February 21, 2026

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Neymar, the Brazilian forward for Santos, has hinted at possibly retiring by the end of 2026 during an interview. The 34-year-old star, who recently extended his contract with his boyhood club, revealed that he is now living year to year due to ongoing injury struggles. Despite these challenges, Neymar has played a crucial role in Santos' recent performances, including scoring five goals in their last five matches of the season, which helped the team secure survival in Brazil's top flight. Neymar returned to Santos in January 2025 after a period away from his hometown club, and he has been a key player in their fight to stay competitive. However, his injury history continues to cast doubt over his ability to participate in this year’s World Cup. Neymar’s decision to extend his contract with Santos suggests he remains committed to the club despite the uncertainties surrounding his career trajectory. The Brazilian striker’s potential retirement by 2026 would mark a significant moment in his storied career, which has seen him rise to global stardom and become one of Brazil’s most iconic footballers. His recent struggles with injuries have raised questions about his long-term future in the sport. While Neymar has shown flashes of brilliance since returning to Santos, his ability to maintain consistent form will be crucial if he hopes to secure a place in Brazil’s squad for upcoming tournaments. For sports fans and football enthusiasts, Neymar’s potential retirement adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling narrative. His

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/21/2026