Ronaldo calls for patience after Brazil's elimination

Brazil's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reignited questions about Neymar's future with the national team.

Visibly emotional after Brazil's Round of 16 defeat to Norway, the Santos forward suggested that his journey with the Seleção may have come to an end. However, one of Brazil's greatest football icons believes this is not the right time to make such an important decision.

Ronaldo Nazário has publicly urged Neymar to step back, process the disappointment and avoid making any definitive announcement while emotions are still running high.

"Don't decide anything now"

Speaking to Rede Ronaldo and TNT Sports Brasil, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner offered clear advice to his fellow Brazilian star.

"Don't demand anything from yourself and don't decide anything now. You don't need to. Nobody needs to resolve anything right now," Ronaldo said.

The 2002 FIFA World Cup winner believes the emotional aftermath of a World Cup elimination is the worst possible moment to decide the future of an international career that has spanned nearly two decades.

Ronaldo praised Neymar's sacrifice

Beyond the result, Ronaldo emphasized the enormous effort Neymar made simply to be available for the tournament.

The Brazilian legend pointed out that the forward arrived in North America after battling a series of serious injuries and praised his commitment to representing his country despite those physical setbacks.

"We can't forget that he's coming off almost two years of serious injuries. He came to this World Cup as a sacrifice," Ronaldo explained.

He also expressed confidence that regular playing time at club level will allow Neymar to regain his rhythm, confidence and best form.

Could Neymar still play at the 2030 World Cup?

Ronaldo believes Neymar's international story may not be over.

According to the former striker, if the 34-year-old can stay healthy and regain consistent form, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti could still view him as an important option for the future.

"He has all the technical quality. What he needs now is to be physically fit so he can become decisive again," Ronaldo said.

His comments come after Neymar appeared to hint that the defeat to Norway might have been his final appearance for Brazil.

The door remains open

Although Neymar's post-match remarks sounded emotional, he has not officially announced his retirement from international football.

The debate over whether Brazil's all-time leading scorer should attempt one final World Cup in 2030 is already gaining momentum across the country.

With Ronaldo now adding his voice to those urging patience, Neymar's future with the Seleção remains uncertain. For the Brazilian legend, however, the message is simple: don't make a life-changing decision in the immediate aftermath of a heartbreaking World Cup exit.

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