Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has stated that star player Neymar's inclusion in the national team for the 2026 World Cup will depend entirely on his physical condition. Ancelotti, who recently left the 33-year-old forward out of his squad for the World Cup qualifiers, insists that while Neymar's talent is without question, his fitness is a non-negotiable requirement for modern football.
The coach addressed the issue in an interview with ESPN Brasil, clarifying his position. "We are not going to observe how Neymar plays, obviously. Everyone knows his talent," Ancelotti said. "In modern football, to take advantage of his talent, the player has to be in good physical condition. If he is in his best physical condition, he will have no problems being in the national team." He also revealed that he has spoken with Neymar directly, telling him that he has "time to prepare in the best way to be there."
Neymar has not played for the Brazilian national team since October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee ligament injury. His comeback attempts have been plagued by setbacks. Since his return to boyhood club Santos, he has shown flashes of brilliance but has also struggled, most notably leaving the pitch in tears after a 6-0 defeat by Vasco da Gama. These recent struggles have only amplified the questions around his physical readiness for a top-level tournament.
Ancelotti also provided a clear tactical vision for where Neymar would fit into his team if he were to return. The coach stated that he sees Neymar playing a central role, either as an attacking midfielder or a striker. "He can't play on the outside because modern football needs forwards who have physical quality; it’s very important. He can play as an attacking midfielder without problems," Ancelotti explained.
Despite a minor leg muscle injury cited by Ancelotti for Neymar's recent exclusion, the player himself had reportedly claimed he was left out for "technical reasons," creating a point of friction. With Brazil already qualified for the World Cup, Ancelotti and his coaching staff have the luxury of time to monitor Neymar's recovery and form.
