Brazilian forward Neymar has made it clear that he still dreams of being part of his country’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite being left out of the team for this month’s friendly matches against France and Croatia. The 34‑year‑old, who has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023, expressed his determination to fight for a place in the final World Cup roster.
Neymar’s absence from the squad announced for Brazil’s March friendlies in the United States was a surprise to many fans. The decision by head coach Carlo Ancelotti was attributed to fitness concerns, with the coach indicating the forward is not yet at full physical condition. Despite this, Ancelotti has left the door open for Neymar’s inclusion in the final World Cup team if he can prove his fitness before the tournament.
The former Paris Saint‑Germain and Barcelona star remains Brazil’s all‑time leading scorer with 79 goals and has been a central figure in the Seleção for over a decade. His future with the national team has been under intense scrutiny due to injury setbacks and the rise of younger attacking options, but Neymar insists his focus is on regaining peak form.
In comments following his omission, Neymar acknowledged his disappointment but stressed he will continue to train hard and stay ready for selection. He emphasised his commitment to his fitness and his desire to contribute to Brazil’s World Cup campaign, reinforcing that he still holds a strong belief in his ability to make the squad.
Brazil will face France and Croatia in late March as part of their preparation for the World Cup, which begins in June across the United States, Mexico and Canada. The final roster must be submitted in mid‑May, giving Neymar time to push for inclusion if he can stay healthy and impress the coaching staff in the weeks ahead.
As Brazil’s preparations continue, all eyes will be on Neymar’s fitness and performances at club level, with fans and commentators keen to see whether the veteran forward can still play a role on football’s biggest stage.
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