Brazilian football star Neymar has announced that the 2026 World Cup in North America will mark his final appearance on football’s biggest stage. The 32-year-old forward expressed confidence in Brazil’s ability to qualify for the tournament despite their current struggles in South American qualifiers.
“I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance, and I will do everything I can to play in it,” Neymar told CNN in an interview published on Tuesday.
Reflecting on Brazil’s World Cup Hopes
Brazil, a football powerhouse, is currently in an uncharacteristic position in the qualifiers. After 12 of the 18 rounds, they sit fifth in the 10-nation group. The top six teams automatically qualify, leaving Brazil five points ahead of Bolivia in seventh.
Neymar remains optimistic, highlighting the potential of Brazil’s emerging young talent.
“I have a lot of faith in the team and in the players who are coming through. We’re not where we’d like to be, but together, I think we can achieve something great. We have a year and a half to prepare and do things the right way,” he said.
Brazilian forward Neymar has announced that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be his last, adding he is confident that Brazil will qualify for the finals in North America.
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Injury Struggles and Comeback Goals
Neymar has faced significant injury setbacks over the past year. He started Brazil’s first four qualifying matches but suffered a knee injury during a loss to Uruguay in October 2023, sidelining him for a year.
While he briefly returned for his Saudi club, Al Hilal, in late 2024, a hamstring injury halted his comeback. However, Neymar is determined to regain fitness and be ready for the World Cup.
“I want to be there. I’m going to work very hard to ensure I can represent Brazil,” he said.
Possible Reunion with Messi and Suarez
Neymar also hinted at the possibility of reuniting with his former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami. The trio, famously dubbed “MSN” during their time at Barcelona, enjoyed remarkable success together.
“Playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible,” Neymar said at an award ceremony in Dubai. He emphasized their ongoing friendship, adding, “We still speak to each other. It would be interesting to revive this trio.”
While Neymar remains focused on his current stint at Al Hilal, he left the door open for a future move. Al Hilal will participate in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States in June, where Inter Miami, featuring Messi and Suarez, will also compete.
“I’m happy in Saudi Arabia, but who knows? Football is full of surprises,” Neymar added, reflecting on how the transfer window prevented a move to the U.S. when he left Paris Saint-Germain.
Looking Ahead
By the time the 2026 World Cup kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Neymar will be 34 years old. Despite his age and recent injuries, he remains committed to leading Brazil to glory on football’s grandest stage one last time.
For Neymar, the World Cup represents unfinished business and the chance to cement his legacy as one of Brazil’s all-time greats. With determination to overcome his injuries and a belief in his teammates, Neymar’s final World Cup journey promises to be one filled with ambition and emotion.
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