Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar remains in his plans for the 2026 World Cup but warned the Santos star that he must be fully fit to secure a recall for Brazil.
The 33-year-old has not featured for the Selecao since October 2023, when Brazil suffered a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay. Since then, he has endured a series of serious injuries, including a cruciate ligament tear and recurring hamstring problems.
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Ancelotti told reporters: “Neymar can play at his highest level in this team without any problems. When he is in good physical condition, he has the quality to play not only in Brazil but in any team in the world because of his talent.”
The Brazil coach added that while Neymar’s individual skill is world-class, teamwork and movement off the ball are equally vital: “Brazilian players have individual quality but that is combined with teamwork and movement off the ball, and that’s very important in football.”
Having returned to Santos earlier this year, Neymar now faces intense competition for a place in Ancelotti’s squad, with forwards such as Richarlison, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, and Estevao impressing in recent fixtures.
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Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario backed Neymar to make an impact at the tournament, saying: “Brazil can achieve anything with the players they have available. Neymar can be, and I believe he will be, an important player in the World Cup.”
He added: “Everyone wants Neymar at 100%. The criticism is exaggerated, but expectations for him are always high. Neymar knows what needs to be done to be 100% at the World Cup.”
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Neymar, who has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, is hoping to feature in his fourth World Cup after playing in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions.