Casemiro backs Neymar call-up but warns it should be in a special World Cup role

Casemiro has now weighed in, speaking to Rio Ferdinand on Rio Meets about whether he would include the Santos superstar in Ancelotti’s 26-man squad.

“Yes. But you don’t play him every game. Him playing every game, for me, it’s not perfect. When the game isn’t closed, when it’s nil-nil, you need a special goal, a special assist, then it’s for him,” the Manchester United midfielder began by saying.

“He changes the game and we don’t have this player at the moment. So it’s my opinion, but it’s up to Ancelotti.”

His answer felt measured. Casemiro was not calling for Neymar to be treated as an automatic starter, but as a weapon for specific moments.

Previously, he questioned whether the former Barcelona ace would be able to start on the bench for some games.

Neymar keeps hope alive with Santos goal

Neymar strengthened his case last weekend by scoring in Santos’ 2-0 victory over RB Bragantino, adding another timely moment before Ancelotti’s final decision.

His recent output has kept the debate alive, with four goals and one assist across his last nine appearances for Santos.

The wider question is whether that is enough.

Neymar’s name is reportedly on Brazil’s 55-man pre-list, so there is still a route into the final squad.

Casemiro’s view may be the compromise. The superstar does not need to carry Brazil every match, but he may still be worth taking for the one moment nobody else can produce.