Neymar Makes Admission on Potential MLS Move

Photo by Marco Buenavista/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images

Neymar Makes Admission on Potential MLS Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pragjyoti Singh | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 10:35 AM ET

Brazilian icon Neymar has addressed the growing rumors linking him with a move to Major League Soccer.

These comments follow various reports suggesting that FC Cincinnati has entered negotiations to secure the forward's signature.

Neymar is currently playing for his boyhood club, Santos, where he has scored four goals and three assists. His contract with the Brazilian club lasts until the end of the year.

The ex-Barcelona star officially returned to Santos in 2025, the same club where his professional journey began between 2009 and 2013.

This homecoming followed a difficult stint with the Saudi Arabian team Al Hilal. His time in the Middle East was unfortunately marred by several major injuries, which restricted him to only seven appearances during his eighteen-month stay.

Neymar Addresses Rumored MLS move

The 38-year-old was reportedly involved in early-stage discussions with the MLS club. Reports indicated that his management team was also scheduled for a meeting with Jeff Berding, the co-CEO of FC Cincinnati.

Neymar of Santos gestures prior to Brasileirao 2026 match between Santos and Remo.Photo by Marco Buenavista/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images

As per a report from ESPN, the Brazilian attacker provided an update on his future:

"I honestly don't know [regarding a move to at the end of the season]. "

Neymar also made it clear that his main goal is to finish the season with Santos, where he also serves as the captain.

"I have a contract with Santos until the end of the year and I intend to see it through."

Will Neymar Play in the 2026 World Cup?

Although Brazil's head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, did not include Neymar in the roster for the international friendlies last month, the former Barcelona star has been vocal about his ambition to represent Brazil in this summer's FIFA World Cup.

Ancelotti has kept the door open for the veteran, noting that Neymar's inclusion depends entirely on his physical recovery and match fitness.

“Neymar is not at 100% and therefore he is not on the list. If he can be at 100% physically, he can be there.”

Should Neymar decide to finalize a move to the United States for the upcoming season, he would join an elite group of global icons, including Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Thierry Henry, who transitioned to MLS to grow the sport in America.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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