Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar’s return to the national team will depend entirely on his ability to demonstrate consistent fitness and form over the next six months as the country prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Addressing the media on Monday, Ancelotti noted that global attention around the forward’s future is understandable given his stature, but emphasised that selection for the World Cup will be determined strictly by performance and physical readiness.
According to him, though Neymar has recovered from his long-term injury, he must now translate that recovery into sustained competitive action.
“Neymar is among the players being monitored for the World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “He has six months to show that he is ready. Our responsibility is to evaluate every player carefully to avoid errors in the final selection.”
Neymar, who turns 34 next year, has been largely absent from Brazil’s national team due to injuries, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he suffered in October 2023. His return to Santos earlier this year was expected to spark a revival, but recurring muscular setbacks have limited his appearances.
So far, he has managed three goals in 16 league matches for Santos, who are currently battling to avoid relegation. His recent emotional reaction after being substituted against Flamengo drew attention, though Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda defended the forward’s competitive spirit.
Ancelotti, however, remains optimistic that Neymar can reach the required standard ahead of the tournament. He explained that the upcoming break in the Brazilian Championship should give the player an opportunity to rest and reset before the competition resumes.
“The league pauses on December 7, which will give him some time off, but the return of domestic fixtures will be important for him to show both his technical ability and physical condition,” the coach added.
With six months now defining the window for Brazil’s final squad considerations, Neymar’s path to the 2026 World Cup is clear: he must stay fit, stay consistent, and prove that he can still perform at the highest level.
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