This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast series following the road to the 2026 World Cup. Every week, we dive into the stories and legacies that shaped football’s greatest nations. This time we turn to Brazil, who are facing an identity crisis as they look to avoid the longest gap between global titles in the country's history. From the magic of 2002 to the heartbreaks that followed, it’s the story of a footballing superpower still searching for itself - and for its next star to lift the weight of a nation.

Neymar’s much-publicised injury struggles are said to have led the Brazilian legend to consider retirement. That is according to the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star’s father. Knee ligament damage led to Neymar’s contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal being terminated, while more fitness issues have been endured back at Santos.

Neymar has reportedly ended the speculation linking him with a move to Inter Miami or a return to Europe by agreeing a new contract with Santos. The veteran Brazilian superstar, who retraced steps to his roots in January 2025, is poised to sign fresh terms that will take him through the 2026 World Cup finals and to the end of another calendar year.

Kylian Mbappe has been told that Paris Saint-Germain would not have won the Champions League had he stuck around in France, with it “fantasy” to believe that European success could ever have been savoured with the France international, Lionel Messi and Neymar lining up in the same starting XI. World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf has explained to GOAL why that is the case.

Santos and Brazil star Neymar has undergone knee surgery following the end of the season. The forward helped save Santos from relegation, despite struggling with a knee issue in the final weeks of the campaign, but has now gone under the knife. Santos have offered an update on his condition and an update on when he is expected to be fit again has been provided.