In an unprecedented move, Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has turned to the nation's president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, for guidance on whether Neymar should be included in the Selecao's squad for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar’s international future is now under the spotlight as he battles recurring fitness problems, and this decision has become a matter of national importance. Here's a closer look at the discussions surrounding Neymar's potential World Cup call-up.
Ancelotti Seeks Presidential Guidance
In a surprising turn of events, Brazilian President Lula confirmed that Ancelotti reached out to him to discuss Neymar’s future with the national team. This consultation was not just about football; it was also about understanding the political and public sentiment around Neymar’s inclusion in the World Cup squad.
During a live YouTube broadcast, Lula shared details of his conversation with Ancelotti:
"I spoke to Ancelotti, and he asked me: 'Do you think Neymar should be called up?' I told him: 'If Neymar is physically fit, he’s got the skill, but I need to know if he really wants it. He should look at the example of players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, who continue to perform at the highest level, but Neymar can’t just rely on his name. He must prove himself on the pitch.'"
This conversation highlights the immense pressure surrounding Neymar’s inclusion and his need to prove he is ready to perform at the elite level.
The Fitness Ultimatum from Ancelotti
Ancelotti has been clear in his stance: only players who are fully fit will be called up for the World Cup. Despite Neymar’s talent, Ancelotti emphasized that his place in the squad will depend solely on his physical readiness, especially following Neymar’s knee injury that required surgery last December.
The Italy coach has stated:
"I have always said that I will only call up players who are physically ready to compete. Neymar is on the right path; he has recovered well and is scoring goals. He still has time to prove his fitness and show he has the qualities needed for the World Cup."
Ancelotti’s commitment to fielding only fully fit players reflects his serious approach to the competition, as he believes that reputation alone will not guarantee a place in the team.
Neymar’s Recovery Plan: Santos’ Role
At the club level, Santos is doing everything it can to help Neymar get back to his peak fitness. Manager Cuca recently revealed that Neymar used the March international break for specialized Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment on his knee, an essential step in accelerating his recovery process. This medical intervention is part of a broader plan designed to prepare Neymar for a busy domestic calendar leading up to the World Cup.
Neymar’s recovery roadmap is clear: the player needs to regain his physical strength and agility to ensure he can perform at the highest level when the tournament kicks off.
The Next Generation’s View: Lamine Yamal’s Dream
While debates about Neymar’s fitness continue, the younger generation of football stars are firmly behind him. Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, who considers Neymar his idol, expressed his desire to see the Brazilian at the 2026 World Cup. Yamal spoke fondly of Neymar’s influence on him and the football world, saying:
"Neymar is my idol, and I’m grateful for everything he’s done for football. He inspires us all. He’s the kind of player you’ll pay to watch and watch again just to admire his skills. I hope he will be at the World Cup."
Yamal’s admiration for Neymar underscores the profound impact the Brazilian forward has had on young players around the world, adding further weight to the call for Neymar to be part of the World Cup squad.
Neymar’s Last Chance
With just two months left before the World Cup, Neymar is under intense scrutiny. His fitness remains the central issue, and his performance in the coming weeks will likely determine whether he can make Brazil’s squad. The clock is ticking, but Neymar’s journey is far from over. If he can prove he’s physically ready, he might just fulfill his dream of playing in what could be the final World Cup of his illustrious career.
