Neymar’s future debated after Brazil’s World Cup exit

Brazil were eliminated by Norway 2‑1 in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, with Neymar scoring a late penalty before leaving the field in tears. In the days that followed the striker was the focus of intense speculation about his career. His father published an open letter urging him to keep playing with "lightness" and pride. Neymar spent his brief break in the United States, playing golf in Kissimmee and touring the Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, where his ride on an electric scooter attracted viral attention.

Santos FC confirmed that Neymar will report back to the club’s training centre on 17 July, after his US holiday. The club, which still owes more than R$ 90 million in image‑rights fees to the player, expects him to feature in the remainder of the Brazilian season. Meanwhile, Major League Soccer clubs have been mentioned as possible destinations if he chooses to leave Brazil, and several media outlets reported that a retirement decision could be announced within days.

Former players such as Romário and former commentator Craque Neto also weighed in, with Romário criticizing teammate Endrick and Neto mocking Neymar’s off‑field activities. The combined media coverage reflects both the emotional impact of the defeat and the uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s next professional move.