Ancelotti Sets Clear Condition for Neymar’s Comeback
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar’s physical condition will be the ultimate factor in deciding whether the forward makes Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The 33-year-old star was left out of Brazil’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, officially due to a muscle injury. Neymar, however, later suggested his omission was more about technical choices than fitness.
Neymar’s Injury Struggles Continue
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward has not featured for the Seleção since October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee ligament injury. It was the latest setback in a career that has been repeatedly interrupted by injuries.
Since returning to his boyhood club Santos from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, Neymar has shown glimpses of his trademark flair. Yet his struggles were evident last month when he left the pitch in tears after Santos’ crushing 6-0 defeat to Vasco da Gama.
Ancelotti emphasized that while Neymar’s talent is unquestionable, the modern game demands players who are in peak condition:
“Everyone knows Neymar’s quality,” Ancelotti told ESPN Brasil. “But modern football requires physical strength. If he is in top shape, he will be with us in the national team.”
Neymar’s Complicated World Cup History
Neymar’s journey at the World Cup has always been filled with both brilliance and heartbreak:
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2014 (Brazil): Starred before a back injury ruled him out of the infamous 7-1 semifinal defeat to Germany.
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2018 (Russia): Played through injuries but faced criticism for exaggerated fouls.
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2022 (Qatar): Injured again, though he equaled Pelé’s record of 77 goals for Brazil.
Now, as he prepares for what could be his final World Cup, Neymar faces a race against time to prove his fitness.
Ancelotti’s Vision: A New Role for Neymar
At 33, Neymar is no longer the explosive winger who dazzled in his early days. Instead, Ancelotti sees him thriving in a more central role:
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Attacking midfielder
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Second striker/playmaker
“On the wings, football today requires too much physical power,” Ancelotti explained. “But centrally, Neymar can create, assist, and score.”
Brazil Already Qualified, Eyes on 2026
With Brazil already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, Ancelotti has the luxury of planning for the long term. The Seleção will next face South Korea in a friendly in Seoul on October 10, as preparations continue.
For Neymar, however, every match and every training session will be a test. The world knows his genius, but only his body can decide if he’ll shine once more on the grandest stage.
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