Brazil heads to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America carrying the weight of a two-decade title drought, and manager Carlo Ancelotti has made a decision that resonates far beyond tactics. By including Neymar in the preliminary 55-man roster, the Italian coach taps into the emotional core of the Seleção, acknowledging the forward's role as the last great ’10’ in a nation that reveres its footballing icons.
Neymar’s call-up comes amid a turbulent period. The 33-year-old Santos forward hasn’t played for Brazil since tearing his ACL and meniscus in October 2023. Lingering meniscus issues from late 2025 have kept him on edge, and a recent club match saw a fourth official mistakenly substitute him off, sparking a sideline outburst that earned him a yellow card. Yet Ancelotti sees value in his presence, both as a leader and a creative spark.
Ancelotti’s Fitness Standard
Despite Neymar’s stature—he surpassed Pelé as Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 international goals—Ancelotti has been clear: only a fully fit player earns a spot. “He has to be 100%,” Ancelotti told the media, emphasizing a merit-based approach that applies equally to stars like Vinícius Jr. The injury to Real Madrid forward Rodrygo in early March opened the door, but the competition in Brazil’s frontline remains fierce.
This strict standard means Neymar is unlikely to start. Instead, he’ll serve as a luxury substitute, a role that leverages his football intelligence and experience in high-pressure knockout moments. For a team seeking identity, his hierarchy in the dressing room could be as valuable as his on-field contributions.
Brazilian fans understand this is the final chapter for Neymar in the verdeamarela jersey. With eight goals across three past World Cups, he aims to heal the emotional scars of Qatar 2022. His return to Santos was a romantic pursuit to find rhythm and give his country one last legendary run.
This story echoes broader themes in Latin American football, where icons often carry the hopes of entire nations. For more on the World Cup buildup, see Messi’s picks for favorites and the controversy around Panini’s album snubbing Neymar.
