As Neymar announces international retirement, fans flood social media with emotional tributes: 'Maybe in another life'

Neymar, one of the finest football talents globally, announced his retirement from international football after Brazil's elimination in the 2026 World Cup on Monday. Norway defeated the Selecao 2-1 in the round of 16 in New Jersey, ending their hopes of adding another star above Brazil's crest.

Brazil attempted to push for breakthroughs against Norway, a team whose dominance lit up the quadrennial football tournament. Neymar scored from the penalty spot in the 90th minute, but Erling Haaland's brace kept the Norwegian side firmly ahead, helping them advance to the semifinal.

Neymar announces international retirement

Neymar had a full-circle moment after announcing that he was done with international football at MetLife Stadium. It was the same venue where the Brazilian forward made his senior team debut back in 2010, and he wrapped up his career where it all started.

Following the match, Neymar revealed that he was done with international football.

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The veteran footballer called time as Brazil's leading goalscorer, scoring 80 goals in 129 appearances. His timeless achievements also include an Olympic gold medal. Neymar looked inconsolable after the final whistle, and his Brazil teammates surrounded him to provide comfort following Brazil's elimination. The veteran battled through injuries as Brazil led a fine World Cup campaign until their elimination in the round of 16.

Neymar was celebrated as an icon after Ronaldo and Pele, and his footballing style spoke volumes, with his tricks and dribbles putting the opposition's defence to shame. But his journey was no easy one either; Neymar spent a significant time in his career fighting his own injuries.

He would be remembered as one of the finest talents who never won a World Cup.

Fans lead tributes and humble messages for Neymar

Following Neymar's revelation on his international career, fans flooded social media platforms with tributes and kind messages for the Brazilian. An emotional fan wrote that he could win the World Cup in another life, while another said that no footballer brought him joy like Neymar and that he cherished every second of him playing.

Another user said that football has been unfair to Neymar.

A user claimed that after Neymar's retirement, Brazil will never win a World Cup again.

Another user expressed that while Neymar did not win a World Cup title, his legacy remains unchanged.

This user admitted that Neymar has done a lot for Brazil as he left MetLife Stadium emotionally.

Neymar's legacy would be cemented as one of the world's finest strikers who never won the World Cup.