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Carlo Ancelotti keeps the door open for Neymar’s 2026 World Cup return — but only if he proves his fitness. The Brazil star now faces a make-or-break final audition.
Neymar’s objective is clear: stay healthy and consistent (X/CBF)
Is this the beginning of one last dance for Neymar or the ultimate reality check?
Carlo Ancelotti has once again dangled the carrot in front of Brazil’s all-time top scorer, making it clear that a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad is still within reach — but far from guaranteed.
With the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico fast approaching, Neymar’s potential return has become one of the biggest storylines in Brazilian football.
The Door Is Open… Barely
Ancelotti didn’t sugarcoat it.
“Neymar is capable of coming back… I will only call up players who are physically ready,” he told The Team.
After all, Neymar hasn’t played for Brazil since his injury against Uruguay in October 2023. Since then, it’s been a frustrating cycle of setbacks, including ACL recovery, knee surgery, and patchy availability even after returning to Santos.
The flashes of brilliance are still there in Neymar. But consistency? That’s been the real battle.
Final Gauntlet or False Hope?
No matter the current reality, Neymar is still Brazil’s record goal-scorer: 79 goals in 128 caps. So, Ancelotti knows exactly what he can bring to the team.
“He is part of the history of Brazilian football… naturally, people believe he can help us win the next World Cup,” he said.
But sentiment alone won’t win Neymar a spot on the highly-contested roster.
“He is currently being evaluated by CBF, by me, and he still has 2 months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup… He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness,” he told The Team.
“He is on the right track.”
Brazil will name their World Cup squad in May, with friendlies against Panama and Egypt potentially serving as Neymar’s final audition window.
But more importantly, the biggest battle Neymar currently faces is the one against time — and his own body.
April 12, 2026, 12:54 IST
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