The clock is ticking for Neymar. With less than 77 days remaining, the Brazilian superstar faces an uphill battle to convince coach Carlo Ancelotti – and the nation – that he deserves a place in the squad for what could be his final World Cup. As of today, the odds are stacked against him. His current physical condition is a major concern, and a return to peak form appears increasingly unlikely. Santos, his club, recognizes the challenge but remains committed to supporting him. This could be Neymar’s last chance to represent Brazil on the world stage.
It’s been a long time since Neymar has resembled the player who once dominated world football. Following a significant knee injury in 2025 that sidelined him for a year, this season has been a struggle. He underwent another surgical procedure late last year to regain fitness, a necessary step in his recovery. He’s been battling discomfort and working to rebuild his form, but the road back has been arduous.
Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) have been clear about their expectations: Neymar must be at “100%” to be considered for selection. His legacy demands respect, but Ancelotti has emphasized that merit and current form are paramount. There have been ongoing discussions, with a glimmer of hope remaining, but it’s a fragile hope. The situation is complicated, and Neymar’s past off-field issues haven’t helped his case.
A Critical Missed Opportunity
A turning point came during a recent match against Mirassol. Neymar was informed that Ancelotti and Rodrigo Caetano, the CBF’s director of men’s national teams, would be in attendance to evaluate his performance. But, he was not included in the squad, with the explanation being a pre-arranged agreement with Santos. This absence did not sit well with the CBF.
Ancelotti subsequently justified his decision, stating, “If he reaches 100%, he can be there. Why haven’t I called him up? Because he isn’t at his best level. We necessitate players at 100%. Now, a different discussion could take place when the final roster is announced. He needs to continue working, playing, and demonstrating his qualities… in great physical condition.” This statement underscores the high bar Neymar must clear to earn a spot on the team.
Adding to the complexity, a pro-Neymar marketing campaign has drawn criticism from some Brazilian football legends, including Ronaldo and Zico, as well as prominent figures in the country. Despite this, Neymar is attempting to refocus on football and avoid distractions, following a personalized diet and training plan. The situation remains fluid, and his World Cup participation is far from guaranteed.
Brazil has a wealth of attacking talent, including Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, and Ancelotti is clearly prioritizing players who are currently in top form. The competition for places is fierce, and Neymar must prove he can contribute at the highest level. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as he attempts to regain his fitness and convince Ancelotti of his worth. The 2026 World Cup, for Neymar, is now a race against time.
As reported by ESPN, during a recent friendly against France, the crowd chanted Neymar’s name, demonstrating the continued support he has from fans. Ancelotti, however, deflected questions about the chants, stating that the focus should be on the players who were on the field and gave their all. This response further highlights the coach’s emphasis on current performance.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Neymar and the Brazilian national team is their friendly match against Croatia on Tuesday in Orlando, Florida. This match represents a significant opportunity for Neymar to showcase his fitness and ability to Ancelotti and the coaching staff. Whether he will be fit enough to participate remains to be seen.
What are your thoughts? Do you reckon Neymar can regain his form in time for the World Cup? Share your opinions in the comments below and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
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