Carlo Ancelotti has opened up about Neymar Jr.’s potential inclusion for Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. He said that the iconic forward has the opportunity to make it to the squad if he can remain fit until then.
The Santos star wasn’t picked for Brazil’s friendlies against Croatia and France during the most recent international break. He still hopes to make the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. He last featured for the Selecao in October 2023.
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Speaking about the 34-year-old’s possible inclusion, Ancelotti said (h/t GOAL):
“He still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup. He’s capable of getting back to 100%. I’ve said it several times, and it’s very clear: I’m going to call up the players who are physically ready.”
“After his knee injury, Neymar has made a good comeback; he’s scoring goals. He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness. He’s on the right track,” he added.
Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals and 59 assists in 128 games across competitions.
Neymar shared his thoughts after not being selected in Brazil’s recent last squad before World Cup
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star was disappointed not to be selected in Brazil’s squad last month. However, he insisted that he remains focused on the goal to feature at the World Cup this summer. Neymar said (h/t ESPN):
“I’m going to speak out here, because I can’t just let this pass. Obviously I’m upset and sad not to have been selected. But the focus remains the same, day after day, training session after training session, match after match.
“We’ll achieve our goal. There’s still one final squad announcement to go and the dream lives on. That’s it, we’re in this together.”
Notably, Brazil lost 2-1 against France in their friendly on March 26. During the game, Selecao’s fans chanted Neymar’s name as they wished him to be included in the World Cup squad. After the game, Ancelotti said:
“We should be talking about those who were here, who played, who gave their all, who stepped up, and who worked hard. I am satisfied.”
The forward has had numerous injury issues over the years. However, he has put in some good performances for Santos this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in six games.
Edited by Aditya Singh
