Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar remains in Brazil’s provisional plans for World Cup 2026 but he’s on a tight leash.
The coach said Neymar “has six months to make the final list,” demanding both form and fitness.
After a long road to recovery (including an ACL injury in October 2023), Neymar has returned to Santos.
Ancelotti emphasized that raw talent isn’t the issue but it’s whether Neymar’s body can handle the modern game.
He added that, once the Brazilian league wraps up, Neymar will have time off and then must prove his quality and physical condition.
As Brazil’s coach, Ancelotti has assembled a broad “watch-list” of roughly 70 players under consideration for the World Cup.
Neymar’s inclusion isn’t guaranteed as the decision will be purely merit-based.
Ancelotti also hinted at a tactical shift believing Neymar might fit better in a central attacking role, rather than out wide.
The March 2026 international window could be crucial as Ancelotti expects clarity on who will make Brazil’s final squad then.
It could be one last dance for Neymar on football’s biggest stage but only if he delivers.
If he fails to meet the physical demands, Ancelotti’s door could close.
Brazil’s next friendlies will not just test their squad but will test Neymar’s World Cup worthiness.
The challenge isn’t whether he can play but whether he can survive to fit in for 2026 world cup.
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