SOCCER: Brazil coach says Neymar still has time to make World Cup squad

Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti remains optimistic about Neymar's recovery and believes the star forward has enough time to regain full fitness ahead of this summer's FIFA World Cup. Despite recent injury setbacks, Ancelotti is confident Neymar can return to his top form in time for the tournament.

"He is capable of getting back to 100%," Ancelotti stated in an interview with L'Equipe. "He is being assessed by the CBF (Brazil's Football Confederation) and by me, and he still has two months to show that he has what it takes to play in the next World Cup."

Neymar, who has been a mainstay of the Brazilian national team since 2013, has not played for his country since 2023, when he started struggling with left knee issues. In December, Neymar underwent minor surgery on his knee, and recently, during the international break in early April, he reportedly received platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment to aid his recovery.

Ancelotti praised Neymar's progress, noting, "After his knee injury (in December), Neymar has made a good recovery. He's scoring goals. He needs to keep going down this path and improve his fitness. He's on the right track."

Neymar, who is Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals, has expressed his desire to be part of the national team for the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in North America. At 34, Neymar remains a key figure in Brazilian football, even though he is now captain of Santos in Serie A, Brazil’s top-tier league. His contract with the club will expire at the end of the year.

Having enjoyed an illustrious career with Barcelona (2013-17) and Paris Saint-Germain (2017-23), where he played alongside Lionel Messi, Neymar's career has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. An ankle injury limited his time at PSG before he moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. However, a torn anterior cruciate ligament cut his stint short, and he made his return to action in January 2025, joining Santos.

This season, Neymar has played in five matches for Santos, scoring three goals and providing two assists. After missing two matches recently, he returned to play all 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over Atletico Mineiro last Saturday.

"Neymar is improving with every game," said Santos coach Cuca after the victory. "He's been staying behind to train. His movement on the ball is much better, and he's likely to get even better. It's risky to play him for the full 90 minutes; we'll see if he can handle it, and we'll work towards him playing on Tuesday."

In his debut season with Santos, Neymar netted eight goals and contributed one assist in 20 games, including 17 starts. Ancelotti, who has yet to call up Neymar since taking over the Brazil job in June 2025, recognizes Neymar's impact on Brazilian football.

"Neymar has made, and continues to make, history in Brazilian football," Ancelotti said. "He is a great talent, and it's only natural that people think he can help us win the next World Cup."

Despite his potential, Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil's World Cup squad remains uncertain, with Ancelotti emphasizing the importance of physical readiness. "I've said this several times, and it's very clear: I'll call up the players who are physically ready," he remarked.

As Neymar continues his journey back to full fitness, all eyes will be on whether he can reclaim his place in Brazil's lineup and play a key role in their pursuit of World Cup glory. -Field Level Media/Reuters