Why This Is Neymar’s Final World Cup—and What It Means for Brazil

Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil’s squad, announced on November 14, 2023, comes as both a symbolic and tactical decision. According to FIFA’s official announcement, the squad features a blend of experienced veterans—including Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Casemiro—and younger talents like Endrick and Rodrygo’s brother, Raphinha. But Neymar’s place is unique: he is the only player whose career trajectory is inextricably linked to this tournament.

“This is Neymar’s last World Cup,” said Ancelotti in a press conference at the CBF headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. “He has given everything to this team, and now it’s time for him to show what he can still do.” The coach’s words reflect the duality of Neymar’s legacy: a player whose dazzling skill and creativity have made him one of the most decorated forwards in history, yet whose career has been defined by injuries and the looming shadow of Messi.

Neymar’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward. After winning the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Copa América, he suffered a career-threatening injury in the 2016 Rio Olympics, followed by a fractured vertebra in the 2017 Confederations Cup. His return to full fitness has been inconsistent, with critics questioning whether he can still dominate at the highest level. Now, at 31, he faces a 2026 World Cup that will be his last major tournament before potentially retiring.

Key Statistic: Neymar has scored 78 goals in 131 appearances for Brazil, making him the country’s third-highest scorer in history behind Pelé (95) and Ronaldo (62). However, his World Cup goal tally stands at just 9 in 15 games—a figure that has fueled debates about his tournament consistency.

What Changed Since 2022?

Brazil’s disastrous 2022 World Cup campaign, where they were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Croatia, left the national team in disarray. The CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) and Ancelotti have since overhauled the squad, focusing on youth and tactical discipline. Neymar’s inclusion suggests Ancelotti believes his experience and creativity remain irreplaceable, despite the team’s shift toward a more possession-based style.

“The team is different now,” said Vinícius Jr. in a post-squad announcement interview. “We have more young players, but Neymar is still the leader. He knows how to lift the team when it matters.” This sentiment is echoed by team analysts, who note that Neymar’s ability to dictate play from deep positions could be crucial in Brazil’s group stage, where they face tough opponents like Argentina, France, and Portugal.

The Messi Factor: Can Neymar Finally Step Out of His Shadow?

Neymar’s career has long been compared to Messi’s, a narrative that has both motivated and frustrated him. While Messi has dominated with Barcelona, PSG, and Inter Miami, Neymar’s journey—from Santos to Barcelona to PSG and now Al-Hilal—has been marked by highs and lows. His 2018 Ballon d’Or win came after a season where he scored 38 goals across all competitions, but injuries and club struggles have since overshadowed that peak.

“Neymar is not Messi, and that’s okay,” said former Brazil striker Ronaldo in a 2023 interview with BBC Sport. “But in a World Cup, when it’s about winning, he has to be the one who steps up.” The question now is whether Neymar can deliver in 2026, especially given Brazil’s need to avoid another early exit.

Injury Concerns: Can Neymar Stay Fit for 60+ Games?

Neymar’s injury history is well-documented, and his ability to remain fit for the entire 2026 World Cup—where Brazil could play up to seven games in the knockout stage—is a major question mark. According to FIFA’s tournament format, the World Cup will expand to 48 teams, increasing the likelihood of physical battles. Neymar’s recent form with Al-Hilal has been strong, but his age and injury risks cannot be ignored.

“He’s had a good season, but we’ve seen him come back from injuries before,” said a source close to the Brazil camp, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The concern is whether his body can handle the intensity of a World Cup where every game is a must-win.” Ancelotti has not ruled out Neymar playing a more defensive role, similar to his 2022 World Cup appearance where he was often used as a deep-lying playmaker rather than a traditional striker.

What Happens Next: Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Preparations

Brazil’s next major tournament is the 2024 Copa América, where they will face a tough group including Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. This tournament will serve as a crucial test for Ancelotti’s squad and Neymar’s fitness. If Brazil performs well, it could boost their confidence ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

“The Copa América is our first real test,” Ancelotti said. “We need to show the world that this team is serious about winning. Neymar will be key in that.” Brazil’s schedule for the Copa América includes a home opener against Peru on June 20, 2024, followed by matches against Colombia and Venezuela. A strong performance could set the tone for their World Cup campaign.

Tactical Role: How Ancelotti Plans to Use Neymar

Ancelotti has not yet revealed his full tactical setup for the 2026 World Cup, but leaks suggest Brazil will adopt a 4-3-3 formation with Neymar operating in a more central role. His ability to drop deep, link play, and create chances for Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo could be decisive. However, his defensive contributions will also be scrutinized, as Brazil’s midfield lacks the same depth as Argentina’s.

“Neymar is not just an attacker anymore,” said former Brazil coach Tite in a 2023 interview. “He’s a complete player who can influence the game in multiple ways. If he’s fit, he’s still a threat.” This shift in role reflects the evolution of Neymar’s game, where his technical ability and vision are now as valuable as his goal-scoring.

Fan and Media Reactions: Hopes and Skepticism

Reactions to Neymar’s inclusion have been mixed. Brazilian fans, many of whom have grown up idolizing him, have expressed hope that this could be his redemption. On social media, hashtags like #Neymar2026 and #ÚltimaSamba (Last Samba) have trended, with supporters urging him to “go out with a win.”

However, critics remain skeptical. In a Guardian article published November 15, 2023, football analyst James Mountford questioned whether Neymar’s best years are behind him. “At 31, with a history of injuries, the pressure on him to deliver is enormous,” Mountford wrote. “But if anyone can pull Brazil out of their slump, it’s him.”

Neymar himself has remained tight-lipped about his future. In a rare interview with Marca, he said, “I’m focused on the present. The World Cup is the biggest stage, and I want to leave everything there.”

The Bigger Picture: Neymar’s Legacy and Brazil’s Future

Neymar’s World Cup could define his legacy. If Brazil wins in 2026, he will go down as one of the greatest playmakers in history, alongside Pelé and Ronaldo. If they fail, his career may be remembered more for what could have been than what was achieved.

For Brazil, the stakes are equally high. After decades of dominance, their recent struggles have left the nation searching for a new generation of stars. Neymar’s inclusion is a bridge between the old guard and the new, but the question remains: can he lead Brazil back to glory, or will this be his final bow?