Ancelotti opens door for Neymar's Brazil World Cup return
Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has stated that Neymar could still force his way into the squad for the 2026 World Cup, provided the Al Hilal forward demonstrates he is physically ready. In an interview with France Football, Ancelotti acknowledged the 32-year-old's enduring talent and the public expectation for his inclusion, while also noting he will only select players at peak condition.
Ancelotti's comments reignite the debate over Neymar's international future ahead of the manager unveiling his preliminary squad list in the coming weeks. The Brazilian superstar was omitted from the Seleção's most recent squad in March for friendlies against France and Croatia, following a serious knee ligament injury suffered last October. He has since returned to action in the Saudi Pro League, scoring five goals in 11 appearances for Al Hilal this season.
The coach offered a cautiously optimistic assessment of Neymar's recovery path. "Neymar is capable of coming back 100% and still has two months to show he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup," Ancelotti said. He added, "After his knee injury, he has come back well, he is scoring goals. He must continue on this path and improve his condition. He is on the right track." This represents a clear, if conditional, pathway for the nation's all-time top scorer to add to his 128 caps.
The decision carries significant weight for Brazil, which is seeking a record-extending sixth World Cup title. Neymar's creativity and experience are seen by many as vital assets for a squad in transition, yet his fitness and ability to withstand the rigors of a major tournament remain legitimate concerns. Ancelotti's tenure, which began last summer, is now directly intertwined with managing the legacy of one of Brazil's most iconic modern players.
Neymar's club future also remains a topic of speculation, with occasional links to a return to European football, though his focus is squarely on proving his fitness to Ancelotti. The coming months at Al Hilal will serve as an extended audition. With the Copa América this summer not featuring Brazil as a participant, the buildup to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico becomes the sole immediate focus for Ancelotti's planning, with Neymar's fate a central narrative.
