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Carlo Ancelotti Leaves Door Open for Neymar’s Brazil World Cup Return

Posted : 11 April 2026

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has suggested that Neymar still has a chance to earn a place in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, but stressed that the forward must prove his fitness in the coming months.

Ancelotti reiterated that Neymar remains under consideration for selection as long as he is fully fit. However, the forward was not included in Brazil’s squad for last month’s international friendlies against France and Croatia, indicating that he still has work to do to return to the national setup.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals, has not featured for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. Since returning to club football with Santos last year, he has struggled to maintain consistent form and regular appearances.

During Brazil’s recent 2-1 defeat to France in Boston, fans were heard calling for Neymar’s return. Ancelotti, however, downplayed the reaction at the time, insisting that focus should remain on the players currently in the squad.

Now, with the World Cup approaching, the Italian coach has softened his stance slightly, acknowledging that Neymar is still part of Brazil’s broader plans. The tournament will be held from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking to L’Équipe, Ancelotti praised Neymar’s talent but emphasized that selection will depend on performance and physical condition. He noted that the Brazilian Football Confederation, along with his coaching staff, is monitoring the player closely.

“He’s a great talent, and it’s normal people believe he can help us win the World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “He still has two months to show he has the qualities needed.”

The coach added that Neymar has made positive progress since returning from injury, scoring goals and showing improvement, but must continue building match fitness to be fully considered.

Brazil will compete in Group C at the World Cup alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Their tournament campaign is set to begin on June 13 at the stadium in New Jersey.

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