World Cup 2026: Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals how Neymar will be remembered as footballer

Legendary marksman, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has shared his thoughts on Neymar’s legacy for Brazil following the winger’s announcement of his retirement at the 2026 World Cup.

The former Barcelona star was named a substitute in the Selecao’s Round of 16 match against Norway.

In the 68th minute, he was met with a tremendous ovation from the large Brazilian crowd at the MetLife Stadium as he replaced Gabriel Martinelli.

Regrettably for him, Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland scored two remarkable goals (79′, 90′) and stunned the five-time champions.

The match appeared to be heading towards a 2-0 victory for the Scandinavian team, but Carlo Ancelotti’s squad was awarded a last-minute penalty deep into stoppage time.

Neymar took the responsibility and calmly converted from the penalty spot (90+10′). However, it turned out to be merely a consolation as his team lost 2-1 and exited the tournament.

After the match, Ibrahimovic provided a candid evaluation of the 34-year-old’s legacy for his country. 

Speaking on FOX Sports, the Swede, who has played for prestigious European clubs such as Barcelona, Manchester United, and PSG, said, “I mean he will be remembered as a great footballer… He was in Barcelona (and) did good, he was in PSG (and) did good, but people will also say that he could have done more than he did. 

“People wanted him to win the Ballon d’Or, but he didn’t win. An amazing talent, an amazing player and the skillset he had was just crazy. A sad moment for Brazilian football.”

Neymar finished as Brazil’s second-most capped player (130) and all-time top scorer (80) ahead of legends like Pele, Ronaldo Nazario and Romario among others.