Ronaldo tells Neymar to delay retirement decision as CBF maps out 2030 plan

Ronaldo to Neymar: don't decide now

Ronaldo Nazario has a message for Neymar, and it is simple: take your time. "Don't demand anything from yourself and don't decide anything now, you don't need to," the Brazil legend said, publicly urging the forward to reconsider international retirement after the round of 16 exit to Norway (2). Neymar had reportedly been weighing his future with the Seleção following the World Cup. Ronaldo acknowledged the sacrifice Neymar made to be fit for the 2026 campaign and made it clear the 34-year-old still has more to give (2).

Lula unloads on the Seleção

Former president Lula da Silva did not hold back. He called the squad's behavior shameful after the Norway elimination and turned his fire on Carlo Ancelotti with a sarcastic suggestion: hire an aggressive robot to win in 2030 (3). It is the kind of political pressure no Brazil manager wants, and it lands at a moment when the team's identity is already being questioned by pundits and former players alike.

CBF sets its targets through 2030

The confederation is already looking ahead. On Tuesday, CBF executives outlined goals through 2030: win the 2028 Copa América and the World Cup Qualifiers (4). Samir Xaud, a CBF director, acknowledged the disappointment but pointed to ongoing work across the men's and women's programs. "Viramos uma página," he said, meaning the page has been turned, with focus now shifting to the Women's World Cup and the next men's cycle (4). Vini Jr. and Neymar were both namechecked as part of the long-term picture.

Arsenal and Bruno Guimaraes: tapping-up questions

Bruno Guimaraes is at the center of a potential controversy. Arsenal's pursuit of the Newcastle midfielder could face scrutiny over a possible tapping-up issue (1). For Brazil fans, it matters: Guimaraes is a key figure in the national team setup, and any disciplinary case that disrupts his club season could carry over to international duties. Newcastle are unlikely to let him go quietly regardless.

Fan reactions

The Ronaldo-Neymar story has fans split. On Reddit, the question is blunt: should Neymar play in the next World Cup? Some argue his sacrifice for 2026 should not be the end, while others feel the cycle needs fresh blood. Join the debate. A separate thread has fans reminiscing about the 2006 World Cup, a loaded tournament where legends of the late 90s, prime 2000s stars, and future icons all shared the stage. Nostalgia is high right now.