Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a clear deadline to Neymar, signaling that full recovery from his ankle injury by May is essential for securing a place in the 2026 World Cup squad.
Neymar’s Ongoing Ankle Injury Challenges
Neymar, the 34-year-old Santos forward, sustained an ankle injury during a Brazil training session ahead of a March international match. The setback prevented his participation and appears more severe than initially anticipated. Officials confirm the injury now dictates his involvement in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar must demonstrate complete recovery to earn a starting role. “Neymar’s path to the World Cup main squad hinges on fully overcoming this Brazil national team injury,” the coach stated. “We have already informed him and continue to closely monitor his progress. The final decision rests on whether he can consistently play full 90-minute games.”
Past Struggles and Recent Form
Neymar boasts an illustrious career, including two World Club titles with Santos. However, persistent injuries have plagued him. His last appearance for Brazil dates back to October 2023 during a friendly against Uruguay, after which he has been sidelined for nearly a year.
During his stint in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, Neymar endured his worst season despite a lucrative scholarship. In half a season, he managed just seven games, one goal, and two assists. Even after returning in January, concerns over his fitness persisted, with Santos coach highlighting injury risks during team strengthening efforts.
Ancelotti’s squad has actively sought to integrate Neymar, but recurring issues have limited him. He failed to make the A-team roster even once under the current regime, including missing a key away match against South Korea in October where scoring depth proved problematic.
March Matches at Risk
Projections indicate Neymar will miss the upcoming March internationals entirely. His most recent A-match remains from late 2023, underscoring the urgency of his rehabilitation.
Expert Analysis and Predictions
ESPN Brazil analysis predicts Neymar may not feature prominently, citing lost rhythm post-injury and the need to rebuild from the bench. “Forcing Neymar into the squad lacks necessity based on current averages,” the outlet assesses. “He is no longer the top scorer. Expectations align with this view—unless by May this superstar transitions to a vital substitute role in Brazil’s new tactics, stealing a World Cup spot remains unlikely.”
Despite the 128 caps and 79 goals that cement his status as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Neymar’s age and injury frequency raise doubts about matching past performances.
Ancelotti’s Confidence and Neymar’s Resolve
Ancelotti remains optimistic. “Through data, we see Neymar’s potential as a game-changer, but his comeback momentum reveals underlying anxieties,” he noted. “That’s not second-guessing; it’s based on the most recent full-squad selection experiences up to the May recovery benchmark.”
Neymar shares the determination: “It’s uncertain if this is sudden. I’ll enter in December and give it a shot. Doing my best and preparing thoroughly.” A successful return could mark his fourth World Cup appearance—following 2014 Russia, 2018 Brazil, and 2022 Qatar—but frequent injuries heighten the risk of exclusion.
