Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti remains optimistic about Neymar’s chances of making the squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, despite the forward’s recent struggles with injuries.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Ancelotti made it clear that the door is still open for the 34-year-old, stressing that there is enough time for him to prove his fitness.
“He is capable of getting back to 100 per cent,” Ancelotti said. “He is being monitored closely by the CBF and myself, and he still has two months to show he can compete at the highest level.”
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has been absent from international duty since 2023 due to recurring knee issues. The former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star underwent minor knee surgery late last year and has since received platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment to speed up his recovery.
Despite the setbacks, Ancelotti believes the forward is making encouraging progress.
“After his knee injury, Neymar has recovered well,” he added. “He is scoring again and improving his fitness. He just needs to keep going.”
Now playing for Santos FC, Neymar has shown glimpses of his old form since returning to action in January 2025, following a difficult spell that included a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury during his time with Al-Hilal.
So far this season, he has recorded three goals and two assists in just five league appearances, even completing a full 90 minutes in a narrow win over Atlético Mineiro a key milestone in his comeback.
Santos head coach Cuca has also praised Neymar’s steady improvement, highlighting his growing sharpness and commitment in training.
“Neymar is improving with every game,” Cuca said. “He’s working hard, and his movement is getting better. We just need to manage his minutes carefully.”
Although Ancelotti has yet to include him in a squad since taking charge last June, the Italian manager insists that selection will be based purely on match fitness.
“I will call up players who are physically ready,” he said.
With time still on his side, Neymar’s race to be fit for the World Cup remains alive but his place will ultimately depend on how well he can stay healthy in the weeks ahead.
