The 24-year-old superstar has handed off the captain’s armband after guiding his side to a historic triumph.
The Barcelona star made the announcement following his brilliant performance in leading his country to its first Olympic Gold medal. Neymar hit a gorgeous free kick to put Brazil up 1-0 in the first half and then delivered the decisive penalty to ensure the host nation secured the Olympic title.
However, following the victory, Neymar announced he would no longer wear the armband, leaving it up to Brazil coach Tite to choose his successor.
“I don't take it as a pressure, it is you (the press) who say it,” Neymar said to TV Globo. “But today, as a champion, I am giving (up) the captain's armband. I was glad to receive it, I have honored it, but today I am (leaving it). Tite can choose another captain."
Neymar was made the team captain by former coach Dunga for in September 2014. While he did not participate in the 2016 Copa America for Brazil, Neymar again took up the armband for the country’s Rio Olympics and was instrumental in his team's historic victory, being moved to tears after hitting the winning penalty.