Neymar Set to Feature in FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil Coach Ancelotti

Time and injury may have tested Neymar, but destiny seems to have written another chapter as the prodigal son of Brazilian football might make his last dance at the FIFA World Cup 2026, a memorable one. It was back in October 2023, when Neymar last featured for the Brazil national team against Uruguay in a 2-0 defeat. Amidst uncertainties revolving around the future of Neymar in the Brazil national football team, head coach Carlo Ancelotti has made a big revelation and also issued a stern warning for the former PSG star. In this article, we find out if Neymar can still make a comeback into the Brazil national team squad ahead of the World Cup and the fierce competition he is expected to face from his former teammates.

Ancelotti Keeps Neymar in His World Cup Plans

There is not even the slightest hesitation in admitting that Neymar Jr is a generational talent, but frequent injuries have massively reduced his potential. Despite being out of the national team for the last two years, former Everton and Real Madrid gaffer Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that Neymar is still in his plans.

He said, “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.”

Ancelotti also issued a stern warning to Neymar and other players to prioritise teamwork over individual brilliance. He said, “Brazilian players have the quality to play beautiful football, but you have to think about what you mean by beautiful football. Brazilian players have individual quality, but that is combined with teamwork and movement off the ball, and that's very important in football.”

Can Neymar Make It to Brazil Squad for World Cup 2026?

It would be a herculean task for the former PSG and Barcelona winger to make it to the Brazil national team. At a time when Brazil somehow made it to the FIFA World Cup 2026 after finishing fifth in the qualifiers, all eyes will be on Carlo Ancelotti to do some miracles to have a real shot at the World Cup. His recent performance at the club level has also not been that impressive, as Santos are languishing near the relegation zone, and the constant doubt over his fitness could also be a big concern.

Apart from that, there is fierce competition from his teammate, who are in red-hot form and are constantly plying their trade in top European clubs. Richarlison won the Europa League with Spurs, Martinelli has been in sublime form with the Gunners, and Barcelona star Raphinha was a Ballon d'Or contender. All this makes Neymar's road to the Brazil squad really difficult. Despite all odds, Neymar has time and again proved that he still has fire in him, and now, when Brazil needs him more than ever, the prodigal son of Brazilian football must step forward to lead his country to glory.