Neymar, one of the most talented and controversial figures in modern soccer, has made a heartfelt declaration that has stirred both hope and reflection among fans. At 33, the Brazilian icon continues to grapple with injuries, criticism, and uncertainty about his long-term playing future. But despite all that, he insists he still has plenty of love left for the beautiful game.
After months of speculation surrounding his next steps—whether he would fight to return to the national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup or quietly call time on his career—the veteran finally offered a candid glimpse into his mindset. His words came during an intimate interview with his partner, Bruna Biancardi, giving fans insight into how the superstar views the closing stages of his journey.
“What drives me is the love I still feel for football,” Neymar said. “The desire I feel to play, to be on the field, that’s what drives me every day—to wake up, to train.” “The love I feel for football will never end. It will stay with me for the rest of my life. At some point, the desire to play, because I can no longer do it, because I can no longer perform as I want to, will end.”
Career rekindled at Santos
Neymar recently signed a contract extension with Santos, the club where it all began, until the end of 2025—with an option that could take him through to the 2026 World Cup. Since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, his time has been fragmented by injuries, including a devastating anterior cruciate ligament tear in October 2023 that halted his appearances for both Al-Hilal and the Brazil national team.
Despite playing only 14 league games over the past two years, his decision to stay at Santos is driven not by comfort but by commitment. The forward has attracted interest from European clubs again, but his heart remains tied to the team that launched his career. “As long as I still have the desire to play football,” he told Biancardi, “you’ll have to share me, my love.”
Road to 2026—and the weight of judgment
Neymar has made it clear he intends to reach the 2026 World Cup, if his body allows it. His mission is not only professional but personal—to define his legacy on his own terms. Yet, he acknowledges the toll criticism has taken on him.
“I can’t control other people’s thoughts,” he confessed. “It’s difficult to answer people who understand absolutely nothing about our lives. Judging is easy, but understanding what’s behind it is difficult. “I’ve spent my entire career a little sad because of this, because of people who don’t know me talking about me and not just about soccer.”
Throughout his career, the superstar has faced scrutiny not only for his performances but also for his lifestyle. The narrative around him has often been harsh, with social media amplifying every misstep or off-field incident. Still, he insists that his focus is on what truly matters—his passion, his performance, and the people who genuinely understand him.
“My football career will end,” he said, “my name will remain in history, but it will end. Years will pass, other players and generations will come and go. I always say that the people who know me are what matter.”
