Santos and Fortaleza EC drew 3-3 in Serie A. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 16 stage in the 2019 season. Rodrigo D'alonso Ferreira, Brazil officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Santos vs Fortaleza EC meeting in Serie A with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Santos and Fortaleza EC. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Serie ARecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Santos and Fortaleza EC drew 3-3 in Serie A. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 16 stage in the 2019 season. Rodrigo D'alonso Ferreira, Brazil officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Santos vs Fortaleza EC meeting in Serie A with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Santos and Fortaleza EC. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Serie ARecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Following Santos' qualification to the next round in the Copa do Brasil, Remo president accused Neymar of being a "punk" following the post-match turmoil. Neymar proved to be a key catalyst in Santos securing a quarterfinal spot in the Copa do Brasil following a 1-0 victory over Clube do Remo on Tuesday. However, the Brazilian superstar sparked postmatch turmoil that led to the opposing club’s president publicly labeling him a “punk.“ Santos and Remo met on Tuesday for the second leg of their Copa do Brasil Round of 16 tie following a scoreless draw at Vila Belmiro in the opening leg. Neymar, who entered as a second-half substitute, provided the spark by winning possession and setting up Rony for the match-winning goal in the 74th minute to send the Peixe through to the next round. The atmosphere turned hostile as the final whistle blew and players made their way toward the tunnel. After enduring relentless jeers throughout the match, Neymar blew a kiss toward a heckling fan near the walkway and quipped that the gesture was “for his wife.” The heated exchange continued outside the locker room area at the stadium. Video captured by journalist Brenno Rayol showed Neymar near the dressing room entrance shouting “eliminated” at members of Remo’s front office while making taunting gestures. Momento exato que começou toda confusão na zona mista do Estádio Mangueirão entre Neymar e dirigentes do Remo. 📽️ @BrennoRayol pic.twitter.com/ljcDmIMzpw— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) August 5, 2026 Security barriers separated the two squads as players and executives traded insults, with frustrated Remo directors and supporters attempting to push through the fencing. Santos security staff stepped in to diffuse the escalating situation and restore order. Remo president calls Neymar out Despite Santos advancing, Neymar’s postmatch antics overshadowed the result and drew immediate outrage from the home side. Remo president Antonio Carlos Teixeira held nothing back, launching a scathing critique against the former Barcelona star. Speaking with local outlet Portal O Fluxo, the club president voiced his frustration directly. “A great campaign (Remo’s). Now, as for the feeling of being robbed, Santos doesn’t need that. And this ‘vagabundo’ (punk) Neymar, who is idolized by a bunch of kids, who pulled his antics here, still came to provoke us. So, we are to blame for idolizing a bunch of punks like a guy like him,” Teixeira stated.
As speculation continues to grow, the former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal star has offered another glimpse into his mindset without providing the definitive answer many fans were hoping to hear. Neymar has drawn renewed attention following recent comments about his future after retiring from the Brazilian national team. As speculation continues to grow, the former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal star has offered another glimpse into his mindset without providing the definitive answer many fans were hoping to hear. The 34-year-old remains under contract with Santos until the end of 2026, but uncertainty continues to surround what will happen after that agreement expires. While his father believes there could still be another chapter ahead, Neymar himself has made it clear that the final decision will belong to him. Part of the uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s future comes after he officially ended his international career following Brazil‘s disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign. Muscular problems limited his involvement during the tournament, restricting him to only two appearances before the Selecao suffered an earlier-than-expected elimination. That World Cup became the final chapter of his remarkable international career, ending with Neymar as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals. Although the international chapter has closed, his club career remains undecided. Neymar of Brazil. Neymar refuses to commit to life after Santos The biggest talking point from the sixth Neymar Jr. Institute Auction in Sao Paulo came when the Brazilian icon was asked about his club future. Neymar admitted he has not decided whether he will continue playing after his Santos contract expires in December, leaving every possible scenario open, including remaining at Santos, joining another club or even retiring from professional soccer. “I don’t know how long I’ll keep playing. I’m not thinking about stopping, nor do I know how long I’ll carry on,” he explained during the charity event. He also outlined the approach he intends to take over the coming months: “I have a contract with Santos until December. I intend to see it through, to honour the Santos shirt as best I can, and then I’ll think about it when my contract ends — whether I stay at Santos, leave, move on, stop playing or carry on. I really don’t know what I’m going to do. There’s still a long way to go until December, so let’s take it one step at a time.” Focus remains on finishing the season Rather than rushing into a decision, Neymar emphasized that his attention remains firmly on helping Santos through the remainder of the campaign. The Brazilian returned to his boyhood club in January 2025 after an injury-plagued spell with Al-Hilal, hoping to rediscover both fitness and confidence. Since then, he has gradually worked his way back into the squad while contributing to the club’s efforts in domestic competitions. The veteran forward has repeatedly stressed that every match is part of a longer rebuilding process after several difficult years interrupted by injuries. “I’m feeling good physically, more and more so, out on the pitch,” he said.
Neymar received a special tribute at Santos stadium with a bust and a statue, now turning alongside Pele as the two players to have specific tribute areas in the museum. Neymar’s legendary career is entering its final chapter following his recent retirement from the Brazilian national team, but his legacy at the club level is already set in stone. The superstar forward has officially been immortalized at Vila Belmiro Stadium, where Santos unveiled a dedicated museum exhibit featuring a custom bust and statue, placing him alongside all-time icon Pelé with a permanent tribute area. On Thursday, July 30, Santos inaugurated a newly designed wing honoring Neymar Jr. inside the Memorial das Conquistas (Memorial of Achievements), the museum located inside the club’s iconic stadium. The brand-new attraction showcases a bronze bust, a statue, and an autographed blue Santos No. 10 jersey. It was a landmark day for soccer fans worldwide and a deeply personal homecoming for the former Menino da Vila (“Village Boy“). Santos FC officially opened the dedicated space to celebrate the career of the idol long affectionately referred to by local supporters as the “Prince of the Vila.“ Renato Guedes, the lead sculptor behind the artwork, reflected on the challenge of capturing the essence of a living legend. “The intention was always not just to portray the athlete, but to portray the role model he is for the new generation, for the boys who dream of playing football and will see in him the benchmark of futebol arte (beautiful game),” Guedes stated in the club’s official website. Neymar expressed his gratitude in an emotional social media post following the ceremony: “Today I was caught by surprise… being honored by your beloved team is incredible. Being part of the history of Santos is an honor! I thank God first and foremost, my family, and the entire Santista nation that supported me from my first steps in SANTOS FC’s youth academy!“ Os bastidores da inauguração do espaço dedicado a Neymar Jr no Memorial das Conquistas. Uma homenagem especial ao nosso Príncipe da Vila! 🔟✨ pic.twitter.com/sDV2iqiQgh— Santos FC (@SantosFC) July 30, 2026 He closed his message by reaffirming his devotion to the club that launched his career. “We’ve had many emotional and unforgettable moments… but we’ve also had bad times, and all of you were by my side. I’m a fan on the pitch, fighting, battling, and giving everything I can at every moment; I’ve made mistakes countless times and I’ll make mistakes again (hopefully not), but always wanting what’s best for Peixão! Thank you, SANTISTA NATION, for everything,” he wrote. Engraved at the base of the bust are Neymar’s major achievements with Santos, including three consecutive Campeonato Paulista titles (2010–2012), the 2010 Copa do Brasil, and the 2011 Copa Libertadores. During his initial run with O Peixe, he also won the 2011 FIFA Puskas Award, scored 136 goals in 225 official matches, and secured the largest transfer fee in club history via his historic €88 million move to FC Barcelona. The Prince joins the King On its official website, Santos formally dubbed Neymar the Príncipe da Vila (“Prince of the Village“), the title bestowed upon him as the heir to O Rei Pele. While the museum features team exhibits honoring historic eras like the 1960s “Os Santásticos” squad and the “Sereias da Vila” women’s team, Neymar and Pele stand as the only two individual players with dedicated personal galleries inside the facility. Pelé’s legendary gallery, known as “The King’s Space,” houses iconic memorabilia including game-worn jerseys, boots, personal trophies, and a symbolic crown and scepter honoring his status as soccer royalty. It also features his personal locker, which has remained locked and untouched since his final match for Santos in 1974, one of the most sacred sites at Vila Belmiro.
Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation's greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. Neymar’s remarkable journey with Brazil may have reached its conclusion on the pitch, but another memorable chapter could still be waiting. Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation’s greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. While his focus now remains on club soccer, the conversation surrounding his legacy continues to grow. The Brazilian star leaves behind a career filled with unforgettable moments, individual records and emotional highs and lows. His influence stretched across more than a decade, helping shape an era for the national team while becoming one of the most recognizable faces in world soccer. The 34-year-old officially ended any remaining speculation after Santos defeated Universidad Central 4-2 in the Copa Sudamericana. Speaking after the match, Neymar made it clear that he has no intention of returning to represent Brazil following the country’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup. “My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life, I always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don’t want to anymore,” Neymar said. His comments reinforced the emotional message he first delivered after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16. That match saw Neymar come off the bench to score a stoppage-time penalty, a goal that ultimately became the final strike of his international career. Brazil prepares special farewell Although Neymar insists his international days are finished, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is reportedly considering organizing an official farewell match to celebrate his contribution to the Selecao. According to O Globo, discussions are underway, although no date has been established because the forward remains an active player at club level. The proposal remains in its early stages, but it reflects the enormous respect Neymar commands within Brazilian soccer. Rather than allowing his final appearance to come in the disappointment of World Cup elimination, the federation hopes supporters could eventually have the chance to celebrate his achievements on a dedicated occasion. Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil reacts after the 1-2 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Career filled with records Neymar’s international résumé places him among the greatest players ever to represent Brazil. After making his senior debut in 2010, he accumulated 130 appearances and scored a record 80 goals, surpassing Pelé to become the country’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer. He also became only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cups, finding the net during the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions. Those accomplishments came despite injuries repeatedly interrupting his biggest tournaments. His international journey also included one of Brazilian soccer’s most emotional victories. Neymar captained the national side to its historic first Olympic gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games, scoring during the final before converting the decisive penalty in the shootout against Germany.
Carlo Ancelotti shared his honest thoughs on Neymar's retirement from Brazil national team, as well as the decision include him in the 2026 World Cup roster: "It was the right decision to call him up." Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international soccer 16 years after making his senior debut in 2010, bringing a defining era in Brazil sports history to a close. Following the news, head coach Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the superstar’s decision to walk away, while defending his choice to include the veteran in his final World Cup roster: “It was the right decision to call him up.“ The 2026 World Cup was always envisioned as Neymar’s final international objective, an ambition so driving that he returned to Santos to escape the European spotlight and rebuild his match fitness. But a heartbreaking Round of 16 exit brought a abrupt end to his time with the Selecao, ushering in a changing of the guard as Ancelotti turns his focus toward a total program rebuild ahead of 2030. Speaking Wednesday with ESPN’s Pedro Ivo Almeida, Ancelotti made it clear that a new chapter has arrived for the five-time World Cup champions: “I think that players like Neymar, who already commented yesterday, and with all due respect to his decision. I believe that in history, one generation ends and another has to come, and it has to be better than the last one.” Addressing Neymar specifically, Ancelotti offered a candid assessment of the frustration surrounding the forward’s physical condition heading into the tournament, particularly the lingering injuries that kept him sidelined for the group stage. “The only thing that bothered me is that Neymar could have prepared himself better during that lead-up period. He could have been ready for game one instead of game four. That was the only disappointing part.“ Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil applauds fans Arriving at training camp with muscle discomfort, an MRI revealed a Grade 2 calf strain that ruled Neymar out of Brazil‘s first two group matches against Morocco and Haiti. Still, Ancelotti praised the star’s professionalism, noting his attitude “was perfect,” highlighting his focus on rehab, support for younger teammates, and work ethic in training. “I think he didn’t contribute on a technical level as it was hoped he could, because he couldn’t. But, in terms of attitude, it was a very positive attitude. I have a lot of affection for him, I thanked him for his attitude, for his behavior, and I think it was the right decision to include him on the 26-man roster,” Ancelotti concluded, maintaining that bringing the veteran to North America was no mistake. Ancelotti hints at further roster turnover Since taking charge in May 2025, Ancelotti has demonstrated a commitment to reshaping Brazil’s national team pool, blending emerging domestic talent with experienced veterans. With Neymar moving on, several other longtime pillars are approaching the end of their international careers; while a select few will be retained to provide veteran leadership, others will be phased out entirely. While developing young talent remains the cornerstone of the 2030 cycle, Ancelotti confirmed that a select group of leaders will remain in the fold: “Some of these will be there, obviously. Marquinhos, for example. Alisson, we’ll see. Obviously, we have to look at the young goalkeepers, because there are young goalkeepers who are already playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro, and other very young ones who are playing who could be there.” When asked specifically about stalwarts like Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, whose international careers may have reached their natural conclusion in North America, Ancelotti didn’t mince words. “I think so. It is a period that is coming to an end. Obviously, we have to thank all of them, and I have a lot of affection for all of them. But I think the idea that a player over 30 is done means that we have to think about the future,” the Italian stated.
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Following Santos' qualification to the next round in the Copa do Brasil, Remo president accused Neymar of being a "punk" following the post-match turmoil. Neymar proved to be a key catalyst in Santos securing a quarterfinal spot in the Copa do Brasil following a 1-0 victory over Clube do Remo on Tuesday. However, the Brazilian superstar sparked postmatch turmoil that led to the opposing club’s president publicly labeling him a “punk.“ Santos and Remo met on Tuesday for the second leg of their Copa do Brasil Round of 16 tie following a scoreless draw at Vila Belmiro in the opening leg. Neymar, who entered as a second-half substitute, provided the spark by winning possession and setting up Rony for the match-winning goal in the 74th minute to send the Peixe through to the next round. The atmosphere turned hostile as the final whistle blew and players made their way toward the tunnel. After enduring relentless jeers throughout the match, Neymar blew a kiss toward a heckling fan near the walkway and quipped that the gesture was “for his wife.” The heated exchange continued outside the locker room area at the stadium. Video captured by journalist Brenno Rayol showed Neymar near the dressing room entrance shouting “eliminated” at members of Remo’s front office while making taunting gestures. Momento exato que começou toda confusão na zona mista do Estádio Mangueirão entre Neymar e dirigentes do Remo. 📽️ @BrennoRayol pic.twitter.com/ljcDmIMzpw— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) August 5, 2026 Security barriers separated the two squads as players and executives traded insults, with frustrated Remo directors and supporters attempting to push through the fencing. Santos security staff stepped in to diffuse the escalating situation and restore order. Remo president calls Neymar out Despite Santos advancing, Neymar’s postmatch antics overshadowed the result and drew immediate outrage from the home side. Remo president Antonio Carlos Teixeira held nothing back, launching a scathing critique against the former Barcelona star. Speaking with local outlet Portal O Fluxo, the club president voiced his frustration directly. “A great campaign (Remo’s). Now, as for the feeling of being robbed, Santos doesn’t need that. And this ‘vagabundo’ (punk) Neymar, who is idolized by a bunch of kids, who pulled his antics here, still came to provoke us. So, we are to blame for idolizing a bunch of punks like a guy like him,” Teixeira stated.
As speculation continues to grow, the former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal star has offered another glimpse into his mindset without providing the definitive answer many fans were hoping to hear. Neymar has drawn renewed attention following recent comments about his future after retiring from the Brazilian national team. As speculation continues to grow, the former Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal star has offered another glimpse into his mindset without providing the definitive answer many fans were hoping to hear. The 34-year-old remains under contract with Santos until the end of 2026, but uncertainty continues to surround what will happen after that agreement expires. While his father believes there could still be another chapter ahead, Neymar himself has made it clear that the final decision will belong to him. Part of the uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s future comes after he officially ended his international career following Brazil‘s disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign. Muscular problems limited his involvement during the tournament, restricting him to only two appearances before the Selecao suffered an earlier-than-expected elimination. That World Cup became the final chapter of his remarkable international career, ending with Neymar as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals. Although the international chapter has closed, his club career remains undecided. Neymar of Brazil. Neymar refuses to commit to life after Santos The biggest talking point from the sixth Neymar Jr. Institute Auction in Sao Paulo came when the Brazilian icon was asked about his club future. Neymar admitted he has not decided whether he will continue playing after his Santos contract expires in December, leaving every possible scenario open, including remaining at Santos, joining another club or even retiring from professional soccer. “I don’t know how long I’ll keep playing. I’m not thinking about stopping, nor do I know how long I’ll carry on,” he explained during the charity event. He also outlined the approach he intends to take over the coming months: “I have a contract with Santos until December. I intend to see it through, to honour the Santos shirt as best I can, and then I’ll think about it when my contract ends — whether I stay at Santos, leave, move on, stop playing or carry on. I really don’t know what I’m going to do. There’s still a long way to go until December, so let’s take it one step at a time.” Focus remains on finishing the season Rather than rushing into a decision, Neymar emphasized that his attention remains firmly on helping Santos through the remainder of the campaign. The Brazilian returned to his boyhood club in January 2025 after an injury-plagued spell with Al-Hilal, hoping to rediscover both fitness and confidence. Since then, he has gradually worked his way back into the squad while contributing to the club’s efforts in domestic competitions. The veteran forward has repeatedly stressed that every match is part of a longer rebuilding process after several difficult years interrupted by injuries. “I’m feeling good physically, more and more so, out on the pitch,” he said.
Neymar received a special tribute at Santos stadium with a bust and a statue, now turning alongside Pele as the two players to have specific tribute areas in the museum. Neymar’s legendary career is entering its final chapter following his recent retirement from the Brazilian national team, but his legacy at the club level is already set in stone. The superstar forward has officially been immortalized at Vila Belmiro Stadium, where Santos unveiled a dedicated museum exhibit featuring a custom bust and statue, placing him alongside all-time icon Pelé with a permanent tribute area. On Thursday, July 30, Santos inaugurated a newly designed wing honoring Neymar Jr. inside the Memorial das Conquistas (Memorial of Achievements), the museum located inside the club’s iconic stadium. The brand-new attraction showcases a bronze bust, a statue, and an autographed blue Santos No. 10 jersey. It was a landmark day for soccer fans worldwide and a deeply personal homecoming for the former Menino da Vila (“Village Boy“). Santos FC officially opened the dedicated space to celebrate the career of the idol long affectionately referred to by local supporters as the “Prince of the Vila.“ Renato Guedes, the lead sculptor behind the artwork, reflected on the challenge of capturing the essence of a living legend. “The intention was always not just to portray the athlete, but to portray the role model he is for the new generation, for the boys who dream of playing football and will see in him the benchmark of futebol arte (beautiful game),” Guedes stated in the club’s official website. Neymar expressed his gratitude in an emotional social media post following the ceremony: “Today I was caught by surprise… being honored by your beloved team is incredible. Being part of the history of Santos is an honor! I thank God first and foremost, my family, and the entire Santista nation that supported me from my first steps in SANTOS FC’s youth academy!“ Os bastidores da inauguração do espaço dedicado a Neymar Jr no Memorial das Conquistas. Uma homenagem especial ao nosso Príncipe da Vila! 🔟✨ pic.twitter.com/sDV2iqiQgh— Santos FC (@SantosFC) July 30, 2026 He closed his message by reaffirming his devotion to the club that launched his career. “We’ve had many emotional and unforgettable moments… but we’ve also had bad times, and all of you were by my side. I’m a fan on the pitch, fighting, battling, and giving everything I can at every moment; I’ve made mistakes countless times and I’ll make mistakes again (hopefully not), but always wanting what’s best for Peixão! Thank you, SANTISTA NATION, for everything,” he wrote. Engraved at the base of the bust are Neymar’s major achievements with Santos, including three consecutive Campeonato Paulista titles (2010–2012), the 2010 Copa do Brasil, and the 2011 Copa Libertadores. During his initial run with O Peixe, he also won the 2011 FIFA Puskas Award, scored 136 goals in 225 official matches, and secured the largest transfer fee in club history via his historic €88 million move to FC Barcelona. The Prince joins the King On its official website, Santos formally dubbed Neymar the Príncipe da Vila (“Prince of the Village“), the title bestowed upon him as the heir to O Rei Pele. While the museum features team exhibits honoring historic eras like the 1960s “Os Santásticos” squad and the “Sereias da Vila” women’s team, Neymar and Pele stand as the only two individual players with dedicated personal galleries inside the facility. Pelé’s legendary gallery, known as “The King’s Space,” houses iconic memorabilia including game-worn jerseys, boots, personal trophies, and a symbolic crown and scepter honoring his status as soccer royalty. It also features his personal locker, which has remained locked and untouched since his final match for Santos in 1974, one of the most sacred sites at Vila Belmiro.
Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation's greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. Neymar’s remarkable journey with Brazil may have reached its conclusion on the pitch, but another memorable chapter could still be waiting. Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation’s greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. While his focus now remains on club soccer, the conversation surrounding his legacy continues to grow. The Brazilian star leaves behind a career filled with unforgettable moments, individual records and emotional highs and lows. His influence stretched across more than a decade, helping shape an era for the national team while becoming one of the most recognizable faces in world soccer. The 34-year-old officially ended any remaining speculation after Santos defeated Universidad Central 4-2 in the Copa Sudamericana. Speaking after the match, Neymar made it clear that he has no intention of returning to represent Brazil following the country’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup. “My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life, I always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don’t want to anymore,” Neymar said. His comments reinforced the emotional message he first delivered after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16. That match saw Neymar come off the bench to score a stoppage-time penalty, a goal that ultimately became the final strike of his international career. Brazil prepares special farewell Although Neymar insists his international days are finished, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is reportedly considering organizing an official farewell match to celebrate his contribution to the Selecao. According to O Globo, discussions are underway, although no date has been established because the forward remains an active player at club level. The proposal remains in its early stages, but it reflects the enormous respect Neymar commands within Brazilian soccer. Rather than allowing his final appearance to come in the disappointment of World Cup elimination, the federation hopes supporters could eventually have the chance to celebrate his achievements on a dedicated occasion. Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil reacts after the 1-2 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Career filled with records Neymar’s international résumé places him among the greatest players ever to represent Brazil. After making his senior debut in 2010, he accumulated 130 appearances and scored a record 80 goals, surpassing Pelé to become the country’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer. He also became only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cups, finding the net during the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions. Those accomplishments came despite injuries repeatedly interrupting his biggest tournaments. His international journey also included one of Brazilian soccer’s most emotional victories. Neymar captained the national side to its historic first Olympic gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games, scoring during the final before converting the decisive penalty in the shootout against Germany.
Carlo Ancelotti shared his honest thoughs on Neymar's retirement from Brazil national team, as well as the decision include him in the 2026 World Cup roster: "It was the right decision to call him up." Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international soccer 16 years after making his senior debut in 2010, bringing a defining era in Brazil sports history to a close. Following the news, head coach Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the superstar’s decision to walk away, while defending his choice to include the veteran in his final World Cup roster: “It was the right decision to call him up.“ The 2026 World Cup was always envisioned as Neymar’s final international objective, an ambition so driving that he returned to Santos to escape the European spotlight and rebuild his match fitness. But a heartbreaking Round of 16 exit brought a abrupt end to his time with the Selecao, ushering in a changing of the guard as Ancelotti turns his focus toward a total program rebuild ahead of 2030. Speaking Wednesday with ESPN’s Pedro Ivo Almeida, Ancelotti made it clear that a new chapter has arrived for the five-time World Cup champions: “I think that players like Neymar, who already commented yesterday, and with all due respect to his decision. I believe that in history, one generation ends and another has to come, and it has to be better than the last one.” Addressing Neymar specifically, Ancelotti offered a candid assessment of the frustration surrounding the forward’s physical condition heading into the tournament, particularly the lingering injuries that kept him sidelined for the group stage. “The only thing that bothered me is that Neymar could have prepared himself better during that lead-up period. He could have been ready for game one instead of game four. That was the only disappointing part.“ Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil applauds fans Arriving at training camp with muscle discomfort, an MRI revealed a Grade 2 calf strain that ruled Neymar out of Brazil‘s first two group matches against Morocco and Haiti. Still, Ancelotti praised the star’s professionalism, noting his attitude “was perfect,” highlighting his focus on rehab, support for younger teammates, and work ethic in training. “I think he didn’t contribute on a technical level as it was hoped he could, because he couldn’t. But, in terms of attitude, it was a very positive attitude. I have a lot of affection for him, I thanked him for his attitude, for his behavior, and I think it was the right decision to include him on the 26-man roster,” Ancelotti concluded, maintaining that bringing the veteran to North America was no mistake. Ancelotti hints at further roster turnover Since taking charge in May 2025, Ancelotti has demonstrated a commitment to reshaping Brazil’s national team pool, blending emerging domestic talent with experienced veterans. With Neymar moving on, several other longtime pillars are approaching the end of their international careers; while a select few will be retained to provide veteran leadership, others will be phased out entirely. While developing young talent remains the cornerstone of the 2030 cycle, Ancelotti confirmed that a select group of leaders will remain in the fold: “Some of these will be there, obviously. Marquinhos, for example. Alisson, we’ll see. Obviously, we have to look at the young goalkeepers, because there are young goalkeepers who are already playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro, and other very young ones who are playing who could be there.” When asked specifically about stalwarts like Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, whose international careers may have reached their natural conclusion in North America, Ancelotti didn’t mince words. “I think so. It is a period that is coming to an end. Obviously, we have to thank all of them, and I have a lot of affection for all of them. But I think the idea that a player over 30 is done means that we have to think about the future,” the Italian stated.
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