Is Neymar Playing in the 2026 World Cup?

There is no certain answer to that question today. Not even Ancelotti himself has made a decision. What there are, however, are signs. And not seeing his name on a call-up as important as the one for the friendlies against France and Croatia -- 80 days before the start of the tournament -- is very significant.

The Italian manager was blunt. "It's a physical evaluation, not a technical one. With the ball, he's very good, but he needs to improve physically," he explained at a news conference.

Neymar's situation is not a technical matter. No one could question his abilities, even at the final stage of his career. Personal issues are not a factor either. There is a physical issue that cannot be overlooked.

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Neymar himself did not hide his frustration. After being left off the roster, he acknowledged feeling "upset and sad," though he stressed that he remains focused on his recovery and on the possibility of earning a spot in the final call-up. He knows there is still one last opportunity, but also that the window is narrowing.

Adding to this scenario are some friction points with the Brazilian Football Confederation, which did not look favorably upon certain recent statements from the No. 10. The CBF interpreted them as Neymar trying to create a divide with the manager. And in a context where the coaching staff is seeking order and stability, that could work against the former Barcelona man.

Neymar's Playing History in the World Cup

Despite everything, his name still generates support. Ronaldo Nazario, a more than authoritative voice, was clear in saying he would call him up if he manages to get fit. He even suggested that, even if he is not an undisputed starter, he can bring class and experience in decisive moments.

The present may not be ideal for Neymar, but the past leaves no room for doubt. Since his debut with the senior national team in August 2010, he has played 128 matches, scoring 79 goals and contributing 59 assists. In September 2023, after a brace against Bolivia in World Cup qualifying, he became the all-time leading scorer in the team's history, surpassing none other than Pele.

Among his achievements are the 2013 Confederations Cup and the historic gold medal at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games -- arguably too little for a player of his stature. After his first World Cup, in which he was Brazil's biggest star but a knee blow to his back sidelined him in the quarterfinals, he was part of the squads for Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, reaching the quarterfinals in both.

His last match wearing the No. 10 for the Selecao was Oct. 17, 2023, in a 2-0 loss to Uruguay in Montevideo in World Cup qualifying. That fateful night, he suffered the injury that would not only keep him away from the national team but also from his best level.