Brazil Coach Casts Doubt on Neymar's Participation in 2026 World Cup
Brazil's coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has ignited speculation about Neymar's potential inclusion in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. Ancelotti's remarks, made at a press conference in Washington on Friday following the World Cup draw, have raised concerns about the 33-year-old's future with the national team.
Since taking over as Brazil coach in May, Ancelotti has not yet selected Neymar, who previously captained the team. When questioned about Neymar's place, Ancelotti stated, "If Neymar deserves to be (in the squad), if he is, well, better than others, he will play in the World Cup and that's it". He added, "(But) I don't have debts to anyone".
Brazil finds itself in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Ancelotti stressed the importance of considering other players besides Neymar, saying, "If we speak about Neymar, we have to speak about other players". He further emphasized that the final team list would be determined after the FIFA fixtures in March.
Neymar, who is currently 33 years old, has been playing for Brazilian side Santos. Despite a torn ACL sustained in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, Neymar has been instrumental in Santos' efforts to avoid relegation in the Brazilian championship. He recently scored a hat trick despite a muscular injury and is expected to play against Cruzeiro on Sunday.
Ancelotti also noted that Brazil currently lacks a "referential player," a role Neymar has often filled since the 2014 World Cup. "We have one of the world's best goalkeepers, some of the best defenders, top midfielders and some players up front," Ancelotti said. He emphasized the importance of players prioritizing the team's success over individual accolades, stating, "I don't want players who want to be the best in the world, I want players who want to win the World Cup".
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Neymar's participation, Ancelotti expressed confidence in Brazil's chances in their group. "We can win all three matches, our idea is very clear," he stated. He also highlighted the need for competitiveness throughout the tournament, adding, "Our goal is to play in the final and for that to happen you need to face very strong teams anyway". Brazil last won the World Cup in 2002.
