Neymar Walks Away from FC Cincinnati Pursuit, Citing Lack of Progress

Neymar, the Brazilian soccer star, has walked away from negotiations with FC Cincinnati after feeling the team's decision-makers weren't serious in their pursuit. The Campeonato Brasileiro Série A captain and Brazil national team player had been in talks with the MLS side.

What happened?

According to a report from The Athletic's Tom Bogert, Neymar felt that FC Cincinnati wasn't serious in their pursuit of him. Despite an April visit to Brazil from general manager Chris Albright and co-chief executive officer Jeff Berding, the team failed to make an official offer to the Brazilian soccer star. Neymar, who captains Santos and is playing for Brazil's national team in the FIFA World Cup, had been in preliminary talks with FC Cincinnati.

Why it matters for Neymar

Neymar's contract with Santos expires at the end of 2026, and the Brazilian soccer star has been linked to several MLS teams in the past. Chicago Fire FC was among the teams that reportedly attempted to sign Neymar when he left Al Hilal in 2025. The lack of progress in negotiations with FC Cincinnati may have contributed to Neymar's decision to walk away.

What comes next?

Neymar's future remains uncertain, but it's clear that he's not interested in joining FC Cincinnati. The Brazilian soccer star will continue to play for Santos and represent Brazil in the FIFA World Cup. As the transfer window approaches, it will be interesting to see where Neymar ends up next.

Neymar captains Campeonato Brasileiro Série A club Santos and is playing for Brazil's national team in the FIFA World Cup. His contract with Santos expires at the end of 2026.