The future of Neymar with Brazil’s national team remains uncertain, and the noise around his potential selection is louder than ever. But here’s where it gets controversial: Brazil’s legendary star might be closer to being on the outside looking in, despite his past glories and undeniable talent.
Carlo Ancelotti, the experienced Italian coach now in charge of Brazil’s national squad, has issued a definitive caution regarding Neymar’s prospects for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. His message is clear: he wants to avoid any 'mistakes' in assembling his final team roster—highlighting how meticulous and cautious he’s being about who makes the cut. Interestingly, despite the ongoing speculation, Ancelotti hasn’t called up Neymar since taking over the role, but he stresses that the door remains open for the football maestro with a storied past at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
Neymar’s journey for Brazil has faced several hurdles lately. The 79-goal record-holder, who has donned the yellow jersey 128 times, hasn’t played for the national team since October 2023. That was when he suffered a serious knee ligament injury during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay—an injury that sidelined him for months and set back his international ambitions. His lengthy recovery led to his contract termination at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, freeing him up to return to his boyhood club, Santos.
But is Neymar still in Brazil’s World Cup plans? Ancelotti’s answer is nuanced. He acknowledged the ongoing physical challenges Neymar faces and the importance of his form leading into the tournament. When asked about Neymar’s role, Ancelotti commented, “I initially thought Neymar was just a local topic, but it turns out it's a global one. Fortunately, he has recovered from his injury. He now has six months to compete and showcase his talent and fitness, starting with the Brazilian Championship after December 7.”
He further explained that Neymar remains on his shortlist of potential squad members, emphasizing that selection will be based on careful observation in the upcoming months. “He’s part of the pool of players we’re considering for the World Cup, and he has six months to prove himself to be on the final list,” Ancelotti stated. This careful approach underscores how much the Italian tactician aims to avoid another costly mistake—something that resonates deeply with fans and critics alike.
And this is the part most people miss... Ancelotti has a specific idea of where Neymar could fit best. The coach has been vocal about wanting to see Neymar return to his natural central playmaker role—often referred to as the No.10 position—instead of the wing. He believes that playing closer to the goal, in a false nine or similar role, would maximize Neymar’s scoring opportunities and reduce the defensive burden typically associated with wide players today. As Ancelotti put it, “Neymar needs to be more centrally positioned; this role reduces his defensive responsibilities and allows him to make the most of his creative talents.”
Looking ahead, Neymar has played only three games since returning from injury, including a notable victory against Palmeiras that helped Santos climb out of relegation trouble. Despite ongoing thigh issues, he’s contributed six goals and three assists this season. However, in the eyes of Ancelotti, more consistent performance will be necessary to earn his spot in the World Cup squad, which could see the Brazilian star competing elsewhere come 2026.
Controversially, Neymar’s contract is nearing its end, with the possibility of moving to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, where he could reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez—renewing the famous MSN partnership. Such a move would reposition Neymar to an entirely different stage, far from the global spotlight of European football but potentially offering a lucrative and high-profile chapter at MLS.
So, the big question remains: Will Neymar prove his worth over the coming months and secure a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, or will he be left on the sidelines? And, more provocatively, should a player of Neymar’s caliber be given a pass despite recent injuries and form struggles? Drop your thoughts in the comments—do you think he still has what it takes to make Brazil’s squad, or is this the beginning of the end for his international career?
