Is Neymar's World Cup dream slipping away? Carlo Ancelotti's recent comments suggest the Brazilian superstar might be left out of next summer's tournament, leaving fans and pundits alike in a state of shock and disbelief. But here's where it gets controversial: could this be the end of Neymar's international career, or is there still a chance for redemption? Let's dive into the details.
As the clock ticks down to the 2026 World Cup in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, Ancelotti has hinted that his Brazil squad is nearly finalized, with 17 to 18 players already penciled in. And this is the part most people miss: Neymar, the nation's all-time top scorer, has been conspicuously absent from recent international friendlies due to ongoing fitness struggles. In a recent press conference, Ancelotti stated, 'We need players who are at their best,' raising doubts about Neymar's inclusion.
But is Neymar's talent not enough to warrant a spot? In October, Ancelotti seemed to offer a glimmer of hope, claiming that the door to the national team would always be open for the 33-year-old, provided he's in top physical condition. 'Neymar can play at his highest level in this team without any problems,' he said. However, with the World Cup just around the corner, time is running out for the Santos star to prove his fitness.
Ancelotti's ultimate goal is clear: ending Brazil's 24-year World Cup drought. In an interview with FIFA, he emphasized the team's responsibility to deliver the trophy to the Brazilian faithful. But does this ambition come at the cost of leaving Neymar behind? It's a question that has sparked heated debates among fans and experts.
Meanwhile, Neymar's future at Santos hangs in the balance. With his contract nearing its end, club president Marcelo Teixeira has confirmed their desire to renew, but financial constraints could complicate matters. 'The Neymar project is the 2026 World Cup,' Teixeira said, highlighting the long-term vision. However, reports of a potential reunion with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami add another layer of intrigue to the story.
So, is Neymar's exclusion from the World Cup squad a done deal, or is there still room for a dramatic comeback? Ancelotti's comments suggest the former, but football is a game of surprises. As we await the final squad announcement, one thing is certain: Neymar's absence would be a significant blow to Brazil's attacking prowess. But would it be the right decision? We want to hear from you – do you think Neymar deserves a spot on the team, or is Ancelotti justified in prioritizing fitness over talent? Let the debate begin!
