Full Breakdown
Ronaldo Advocates for Neymar's Return to Brazil Squad Ahead of 2026 World Cup
9/26/2025, 10:03:40 AM
Neymar's Ongoing Injury Challenges
Neymar Jr., the Brazilian forward and all-time top scorer for the national team, has faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly due to injuries. Since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, Neymar has not represented Brazil. Following his recovery, he returned to Santos, his first club, where he has been actively playing. However, he recently sustained a thigh injury that could keep him sidelined until the end of October 2025, further complicating his potential return to the national team.
Ronaldo's Call for Inclusion
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário has publicly urged national team coach Carlo Ancelotti to reinstate Neymar in the squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America. Ronaldo emphasized Neymar's unique talent, stating, "We don’t have another player like Neymar," and expressed hope that Neymar would be fit for the tournament. He noted, “If he is there, we will definitely have better results than if he’s not there,” highlighting the forward's importance to Brazil's success.
Ancelotti's Stance on Neymar's Fitness
Despite Ronaldo's advocacy, Ancelotti has yet to include Neymar in any of his four squads since taking over in May 2025. The coach has stressed the necessity for Neymar to be in optimal physical condition before returning to international duty. Ancelotti plans to utilize Neymar in a central attacking role, adapting to the modern demands of football, which require players to possess high physical capabilities. He stated, “If he is in his best physical condition, he will have no problems being in the national team.”
Public Sentiment and Expectations
The public sentiment surrounding Neymar's potential inclusion in the World Cup squad is palpable, with many fans and analysts echoing Ronaldo's sentiments. The Brazilian national team is under pressure to improve following a disappointing qualifying campaign, where they finished fifth in the South American standings, marking their worst performance in history. Neymar's return is seen as crucial for revitalizing the squad and enhancing their chances of success in the tournament.
Conflicting Reports on Neymar's Condition
While Ronaldo and others advocate for Neymar's inclusion, there are conflicting reports regarding his fitness. Ancelotti has indicated that Neymar must demonstrate he can handle the physical demands of the World Cup schedule, which remains uncertain given his recent injuries. The debate continues as Brazil prepares for the World Cup, with Neymar's complete recovery being a critical factor for both his selection and the team's overall performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We don't have another player like Neymar.” — Ronaldo Nazário, Brazilian Football Legend
- “The people hope 100 per cent that he will go to the World Cup because if he is there, we will definitely have better results than if he’s not there.” — Ronaldo Nazário, Brazilian Football Legend
- “needs to get in better shape to help the national team and to give the best of himself at the World Cup.” — Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil National Team Coach
- “can’t play on the outside because modern football needs forwards who have physical quality.” — Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil National Team Coach
