The final benchmark. Neymar to retire if not called up for the World Cup

Santos forward Neymar could bring his professional career to a close as early as 2026 if he does not receive a call-up to the Brazil national team for the upcoming World Cup. According to The Touchline, participating in the tournament—and possibly lifting the trophy—remains the only genuine source of motivation for the 34-year-old star.

Sources claim that Neymar is going all out to recover from his knee injury and prove his readiness for the world stage. Regaining peak fitness is his main priority at this stage of his career.

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It’s worth recalling that at the end of December, the Brazilian superstar underwent arthroscopic surgery following a medial meniscus tear. Neymar’s contract with Santos runs through the end of 2026.