Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.
Neymar’s father and agent has urged the 34-year-old to “keep playing football” and “rediscover the joy” of the game.
Neymar announced his retirement from international football on Sunday following Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Norway in the World Cup round of 16.
He bows out of the international game as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, with 80 goals, and marked his final appearance with a consolation goal from the spot – he is just the second Brazilian player to score in four different World Cups, after Pele.
Before the World Cup, Neymar had not played for his nation since October 2023 due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, but had impressed at Santos before the tournament.
The former Barcelona star has a contract with his boyhood club through to the end of 2026.
He has made 43 appearances for them in all competitions since returning in January 2025, netting 17 goals, and helped them to stay in Serie A last term.
And Neymar Senior has urged his son not to hang up his boots for good just yet.
“Oh, son… What a journey,” Neymar Sr. said in an Instagram post.
“What a beautiful path. Challenging. Often painful, but infinitely blessed. A decision made does not define your entire story. A dream that hasn’t come true yet doesn’t mean it’s dead.
“The end of the story is never determined by a difficult moment…
“I watched the boy grow into one of the greatest players of his generation in history. When I look back, I see much more than trophies, goals, contracts, or recognition. I see miracles. I see deliverance. I see promises being fulfilled.
“And when I look ahead, I remain just as certain. The best doesn’t depend on age or circumstances. I want to ask you something as a father. Son, keep playing football.
“Rediscover the joy of having the ball at your feet. Smile again on the field. Today you are healthy. God has given you another chance to do what you’ve always loved. Enjoy football. Don’t carry on your shoulders the weight of decisions, criticism, expectations, or the setbacks that life brings.
“Don’t be afraid of tomorrow. Live for today. Train. Smile. Play football. Delight people once again. Do what God has placed in your hands since you were a child. And never forget that, even before the world admired you, you were always loved by God.”
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