Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has left open the possibility of Neymar earning a place in his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, leaving the door open for the forward to play at the next biggest football event.
Ancelotti has maintained that Neymar will remain in contention if fully fit, although the attacker was left out of Brazil’s squad for last month’s friendly matches against France and Croatia.
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Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not featured for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. Since returning to Santos, the former Barcelona and PSG forward has struggled to maintain a consistent run of matches.
Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to France in Boston saw fans chant Neymar’s name, but Ancelotti initially downplayed the reaction, insisting focus should remain on the selected squad.
However, the Italian tactician has now indicated that the former Barcelona and PSG star remains firmly in his plans as Brazil continues preparations for the tournament.
“He’s a great talent, and it’s normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup,” Ancelotti told L’Equipe.
“He’s currently being evaluated by the CBF, by me, and he still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup.
“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.”
Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. The Seleção will begin their campaign on June 13 in New Jersey.
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