Brazilian superstar Neymar is reportedly considering retiring from football altogether, just days after his nation's World Cup campaign ended in disappointment. The 34-year-old, who had already announced his retirement from international duty following Brazil's last-16 elimination at the hands of Norway, may now hang up his boots entirely, according to reports in his homeland.
Neymar, who made a controversial return to the Brazil squad for the tournament, was visibly emotional after the defeat. 'I tried,' he said. 'It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.' The forward, who currently plays for boyhood club Santos, could potentially walk away from the game before the end of his contract.
Neymar's father, Neymar Sr., has publicly urged his son to reconsider retirement from football. In a heartfelt social media post, he wrote: '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 chance to do what you've always loved.'
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has earned 130 caps for Brazil, scoring 80 goals. He returned to Santos last year and has netted 17 times in 43 appearances. His father added: 'A decision made today does not define your entire story. A dream that hasn't come true yet doesn't mean it's dead.'
Neymar is expected to take time to reflect on Brazil's World Cup performance before making a final decision on his future in the sport.
