Neymar’s father and agent has urged the 34-year-old to “continue 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 round of 16 of the World Cup.
He retires from international play as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, with 80 goals, and marked his final appearance with a consolation goal from the penalty spot – only the second Brazilian player to score in four different World Cups, after Pelé.
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 for Santos ahead of the tournament.
The former Barcelona star has a contract with his boyhood club until the end of 2026.
He has made 43 appearances for them in all competitions since returning in January 2025, scoring 17 goals and helping them stay in Serie A last season.
And Neymar Sr. has urged his son not to hang up his boots for good just yet.
“Oh, son… What a trip,” Neymar Sr. said in an Instagram post.
“What a beautiful path. Challenging. Often painful, but infinitely blessed. One decision made does not define your entire story. A dream that has not yet come true does not mean it is dead.
“The end of the story is never determined by a difficult moment…
“I saw the boy become one of the best 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 liberation. I see promises fulfilled.
“And when I look forward, I remain just as sure. The best does not 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 opportunity to do what you have always loved. Enjoy football. Don’t carry the weight of the decisions, criticisms, expectations or setbacks that life brings on your shoulders.
“Don’t be afraid of tomorrow. Live for today. Train. Smile. Play football. Delight people again. Do what God has put in your hands since you were a child. And never forget that, even before the world admired you, you were always loved by God.”
