Neymar considers retirement by end of year

Football

Brazil striker Neymar says he is considering retiring from professional football at the end of the year, according to BBC Sport.

Neymar, Brazil's all-time record goalscorer, says he is considering retiring at the end of the year. The 34-year-old Al-Hilal forward admitted it will be a huge challenge to make the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for his country since his debut in 2010.

He returned to action in October 2024 following a year out with a serious knee injury. According to the BBC, Neymar feels the physical demands of the game are becoming harder to manage. He stated that he wants to be honest with himself and the fans regarding his future in the sport.

The striker joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 for a reported £77.6m. He previously won two La Liga titles and the Champions League with Barcelona. Neymar said he would make a final decision on his playing career after assessing his fitness over the coming months.

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