For a generation of Brazilian fans, Neymar has been the face of the Selecao. Now, with the FIFA World Cup 2026 around the corner, the country’s all-time leading scorer has signalled that the tournament could mark the end of his journey on football’s biggest stage.The 34-year-old Santos forward sparked an emotional reaction after responding to a FIFA social media tribute with a simple but loaded message: “The last dance.” The phrase, famously associated with Michael Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls, appeared to confirm that the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico would be his farewell appearance.Brazil, the only nation to have featured in every edition of the tournament, will be making a record-extending 23rd World Cup appearance as they seek a sixth title and their first since 2002.
A journey defined by brilliance and heartbreak
Neymar’s World Cup story has been one of dazzling talent interrupted by cruel injuries. He burst onto the global stage in 2010 and became the poster boy of Brazil’s home World Cup in 2014 before a back injury ended his dream in the quarter-finals.There was redemption at the Rio Olympics in 2016, where he converted the winning penalty to deliver Brazil’s first Olympic football gold medal. But subsequent World Cups brought disappointment. An injury-hit 2018 campaign ended in the quarter-finals, while his international career suffered a devastating setback in 2023 when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.Since then, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has battled recurring fitness issues, with a calf strain now threatening his availability for Brazil’s opening Group C encounter against Morocco.
One final mission for Brazil’s record scorer
Despite his injury struggles, Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances and is expected to be part of a squad blending experience and youth.Alongside stars such as Alisson, Casemiro, Marquinhos, Vinicius Jr., Raphinha and teenage sensation Endrick, Neymar will aim to end Brazil’s 24-year wait for World Cup glory.For Neymar, the focus is firmly on one final chapter. After years of brilliance, tears and unfinished business, the man who has carried Brazil’s hopes for more than a decade appears ready for one last dance.
