In an interview with L’Equipe published on Saturday, the Brazil manager admitted he understands why fans are clamoring for the Santos star, noting that Neymar has been working hard at the club level to earn a spot on the final roster.

“He is currently being evaluated by the Brazilian Football Confederation and by me. He still has two months to prove he has the qualities necessary to play in the World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “After his knee injury, he has come back strong. He is scoring goals. He needs to stay on this path and improve his physical fitness. He is on the right track“.

Neymar’s numbers this season

Since recovering from his ACL injury, Neymar has returned to action in impressive fashion. So far this season, the Santos icon has appeared in six matches across all competitions, recording three goals and three assists.

Despite the limited sample size, Neymar has consistently demonstrated his dual-threat ability as both a playmaker and a goalscorer, proving to Ancelotti that he is capable of reaching the elite level required for a place on the Brazilian national team’s flight to North America.

The push for one last World Cup

Since taking over the helm of the Seleção, Ancelotti has yet to feature Neymar, making it clear that the player’s limitations were purely physical rather than tactical. However, the former Barcelona and PSG star remains fully focused on the goal of competing in his final World Cup.

“I’m upset and sad that I wasn’t called up. But the focus remains—day after day, training after training, game after game,” Neymar said during a Kings League presentation in São Paulo. “We’re going to achieve our goal. There is still the final squad selection to come”.

The path back for Brazil’s all-time leading scorer will not be easy, as Ancelotti has spent recent windows integrating a new wave of talent. While established stars like Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Matheus Cunha are locks for the squad, younger players like Endrick, Joao Pedro, Luiz Henrique, Igor Thiago, and Gabriel Martinelli have all turned in strong performances, intensifying the competition for the final attacking spots.

While discussions are in the early stages and have yet to materialize into a formal offer, insiders reveal that Cincinnati are currently gauging Neymar’s interest and financial demands. The club is reportedly holding internal meetings to determine the feasibility of signing the global superstar.

Neymar’s current contract with Santos runs through December 2026, meaning the forward is eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with any club starting this June. Bogert and Tenorio noted that Cincinnati believes its financial backing and state-of-the-art facilities would be a significant draw for a player of Neymar’s stature.

Evander eyes Neymar recruitment to counter Messi’s Inter Miami

FC Cincinnati already boast a Brazilian presence with Designated Player Evander and forward Brenner. Speaking to the official MLS channel in November 2025, Evander made it clear he wants his countryman in Ohio to help take down Inter Miami’s star-studded roster.

“I hope he joins Cincinnati. I think he should join Cincinnati,” Evander said. “There are two Brazilians here already. He would be very welcome, and I think he would join the Brazilians against the Argentines at Inter Miami“.

Inter Miami currently feature the largest Argentine contingent in MLS. Led by Messi, the squad includes Rodrigo De Paul, Tadeo Allende, Mateo Silvetti, Facundo Mura, David Ayala, Rocco Rios Novos, and Gonzalo Lujan.

A history of friendship and rivalry

The bond between Messi and Neymar is well-documented, with both players frequently speaking about their close relationship. They have shared the pitch as teammates in 206 matches across legendary stints at Barcelona and PSG.

However, they have also faced off as opponents on six occasions. Messi holds the upper hand in their head-to-head history with four wins to Neymar’s two. Their only meeting at the club level came in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup Final, where Barcelona cruised to a 4-0 victory over Santos. The remaining five encounters took place on the international stage during the fierce Argentina vs Brazil rivalry.

“It’s crazy, it’s not the same as Neymar, he does everything right. I’ll tell you an anecdote, we were doing finishing drills in Paris, Neymar and I were among the best, we scored six or seven out of ten, but he took nine shots and scored nine goals exactly the same, all perfectly placed, and I was looking at the goalkeeper like ‘don’t you see it?’, it’s exaggerated.”

The story not only illustrated Messi’s clinical precision but also the impact he generated even among players used to competing at the highest level. Mbappe’s comments reinforced an idea that had spanned generations, beyond titles or statistics, Messi’s legacy was also built on the admiration of his peers.

The Messi-Mbappe partnership

The connection between Mbappe and Messi at PSG lasted two seasons, from August 2021 to June 2023. During that span, they shared the field in 67 matches, winning two Ligue 1 titles and one French Cup.

The Argentine provided 14 assists to the current Real Madrid player, while the Frenchman returned 20 assists to the Inter Miami forward. Despite forming a powerful attacking trio alongside Angel Di Maria and Neymar, the team led by Mauricio Pochettino did not manage to secure the UEFA Champions League title.

Alongside them, Neymar remained another elite talent, and the chemistry between Messi and Neymar, carried over from their time in Barcelona, combined with Mbappe’s speed and explosiveness, made PSG the most-watched team in the world, producing more than 100 combined goals across all competitions.

However, despite the statistical output and attacking firepower, the trio did not achieve their ultimate objective of winning the UEFA Champions League. Neymar’s injuries at key moments, early round of 16 eliminations against Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, and the lack of defensive balance exposed the challenges of building a team around three superstars of that magnitude.

The forward’s absence is not a last-minute decision. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti did not include him in the squad for the March international friendlies, including matches against France and Croatia.

The decision is largely tied to his physical condition, as he is still working his way back to full fitness after recent injuries and ongoing muscle issues. While he has returned to club action, Brazil’s staff have opted for caution.

Is Neymar injured or resting?

Neymar has been dealing with lingering physical issues since suffering a serious knee injury in 2023, and although he has returned to club action, he has not yet reached full match fitness.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that only players at 100% condition were selected for the March international friendlies. His absence is therefore precautionary rather than tactical.

He has also struggled with muscle fatigue in recent weeks, which limited his rhythm and prevented the coaching staff from fully evaluating him ahead of the squad announcement.

For Brazil, the decision reflects a long-term approach. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the priority is ensuring that the forward can return at full strength rather than risking setbacks in a friendly against France.

How did Neymar get injured?

Neymar suffered a serious knee injury after rupturing his ACL during a match in 2023. The Brazilian star was injured while playing in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, when he landed awkwardly following a challenge and immediately showed signs of discomfort.

Medical tests later confirmed a torn anterior cruciate ligament, along with damage to his meniscus, an injury that typically requires surgery and a lengthy recovery period.

This setback sidelined him for several months and forced him into an extensive rehabilitation process. Even after returning to action, players recovering from ACL injuries often need additional time to regain full match fitness and confidence.

The details of Neymar’s meticulous roadmap were revealed by journalist Murilo Tauro for the respected Brazilian outlet Globo. The strategy is designed to protect his surgically repaired knee and includes personalized training sessions, a strict limit on match appearances, and the avoidance of long-distance travel.

Ancelotti has until May 18, 2026, to submit his final 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar’s primary goal is to prove he can still provide elite value to the Seleção and secure his place in what would be his final World Cup appearance as a player.

Neymar’s strategic plan for the 2026 World Cup

Neymar is reportedly following a specialized schedule designed to manage his physical workload and maintain peak fitness. Between now and the May 18 roster announcement, Santos have 14 matches scheduled; Neymar intends to feature in exactly half of them (7 matches) to ensure he has sufficient match rhythm without overtaxing his body.

To protect his surgically repaired knee, the veteran forward will strictly avoid playing on artificial turf, such as the surface at Palmeiras’ Allianz Parque. Additionally, he will skip long-distance international travel, specifically opting out of Copa Sudamericana away fixtures in Argentina, Ecuador, and Paraguay.

Perhaps most notably, the report indicates that if Neymar is included in the final 26-man squad on May 18, he will immediately cease playing for Santos for the remainder of the club season.

Ancelotti’s stance on the Neymar situation

In a press conference ahead of the friendlies against France and Croatia, Ancelotti was once again questioned regarding Neymar’s continued absence from the squad and his prospects for the final 2026 World Cup roster.

The Italian manager remained characteristically composed and cautious, offering a measured response to the mounting pressure from fans and media. “I observe and listen to everything,” Ancelotti stated. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion on soccer because soccer isn’t an exact science. There are many things people can have an opinion on—whether the team is playing well, or if a specific player is performing or not. All those opinions must be respected”.

When did Neymar last play for Brazil?

It has now been nearly two and a half years since Neymar last stepped onto the pitch for Brazil. His last appearance for the Seleção came on October 17, 2023, during a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier against Uruguay—a night that ended in heartbreak for the superstar as he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee.

The last time Neymar Jr was called up by Brazil was just over a year ago, on March 6, 2025. On that occasion, then head coach Dorival Junior included him in the squad for the South American qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. His return generated major expectations, marking his official comeback after nearly 18 months out due to a serious knee injury.

Despite being called up in March 2025, Neymar did not log any minutes in those matches. After the loss against Argentina in Buenos Aires, a result that led to Dorival’s departure, the player returned to his club to continue his physical recovery. Since then, under Ancelotti, Neymar has not appeared in any official squad list.

When was the last time he played a match?

Meanwhile, the last time Neymar played an official match for Brazil was on October 17, 2023, against Uruguay at Estadio Centenario in World Cup qualifying.

That night proved devastating for the Brazilian star, as before halftime, he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee following an unfortunate collision. Brazil lost that match 2-0.

What did Neymar say about not being included?

Following the announcement, Neymar attended a Kings League match for his team Furia against DesimpedN in São Paulo, and while in the president’s box, he grabbed a microphone to address his exclusion directly: “I’m going to speak out here because I can’t just let this slide. Obviously, I’m upset and sad that I wasn’t called up.“

Despite the disappointment, Neymar made clear his determination to keep pushing for a place at his fourth World Cup. “But the focus remains, day after day, training after training, game after game. The focus remains. We’re going to achieve our goal. There is still the final squad selection to come,” said Neymar.

Having been managed cautiously by the medical staff since his return to Vila Belmiro, the 34-year-old forward showed no signs of rust as he converted a clinical effort in the opening half.

The goal electrified the home supporters and served as a reminder of his enduring quality as Santos look to climb the Brasileirao standings with their superstar back at full fitness.

Having recently returned to action after a 70-day hiatus in Santos’ 6-0 victory over Velo Clube, Neymar is enjoying his first start of the season. The Brazilian forward underwent surgery on his left meniscus in December 2025 and has been undergoing a rigorous rehabilitation process since the turn of the year.

But the Brazilian icon was not finished making his mark on his return to the starting XI. With the match deadlocked at 1-1, the Santos number 10 stepped up once again to act as the hero, finding the back of the net to restore his side’s lead against Vasco da Gama.

Neymar eyes 100% fitness ahead of defining 2026 season

Despite missing the opening matches of 2026, Neymar was instrumental in keeping Santos in the first division throughout 2025. During that campaign, he appeared in 28 matches, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists, proving to be the catalyst for the club’s top-flight survival.

Reflecting on his recent cautious approach to his recovery, the 34-year-old forward emphasized the importance of patience. “I wanted to return this season at 100%, which is why I was cautious in some matches and held back a little. Santos created an excellent plan that helped me significantly in that regard,” Neymar explained during an interview with the Brazilian outlet CazeTV.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Neymar’s primary objective is to secure a spot in the squad led by Carlo Ancelotti. However, he is acutely aware that reaching his peak physical condition is a prerequisite for a national team recall.

“Obviously, I wanted to come back and help my team in the best way possible, but I waited so I could return at 100%, without pain or fear,” he added. “With hard work and perseverance, I believe I will reach my peak form. That is what moves us, and that is what I want”.

“This year is very important for Santos, but also for me as a Brazilian—given it is a World Cup year. It is a massive challenge,” Neymar began, confirming that competing in the 2026 World Cup is his primary goal for the season.

Despite his ambitions for the summer, the 34-year-old surprised many by indicating that retirement could be closer than anyone anticipated, suggesting that this year might be his final campaign.

“I am living year by year. I don’t know what will happen from here on out—I don’t know about next year. It is possible that December arrives and I want to retire. I don’t know; it will depend on my heart. It is one day at a time; we are going step by step,” the Brazilian international noted.

Neymar focused on regaining peak form

Neymar’s return to Brazil was driven by two main factors: helping Santos maintain their top-flight status and prioritizing a structured recovery to ensure he is at 100% for Ancelotti’s selection.

Despite missing the opening matches of 2026, he was instrumental in keeping the team in the first division throughout 2025, appearing in 28 matches, scoring 11 goals, and providing four assists.

“I wanted to return this season at 100%, which is why I was cautious in some matches and held back a little. Santos created an excellent plan that helped me significantly in that regard,” Neymar explained, addressing his previous absences.

Having recently returned to action after a 70-day hiatus in Santos’ 6-0 victory over Velo Clube, Neymar logged 45 minutes of play and expressed a renewed sense of confidence.

“Obviously, I wanted to come back and help my team in the best way possible, but I waited so I could return at 100%, without pain or fear,” he stated. “With hard work and perseverance, I believe I will reach my peak form. That is what moves us, and that is what I want“.

Since the moment Neymar arrived in Catalonia, the two formed an instant chemistry. Their bond became iconic, even as rivals—most notably when an image of Messi consoling Neymar after Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Brazil in the 2021 Copa America final went viral. Currently back with his boyhood club, Santos FC, Neymar recently sent a special memento to his long-time friend.

Santos FC shared an image on Tuesday, featuring Messi and his sons, Thiago and Mateo, posing with the club’s iconic number 10 jersey. The shirt was personally signed and dedicated by Neymar, representing a powerful link between two of soccer greatest legacies.

“From Neymar Jr. to Lionel Messi. From the Prince to the Genius,” Santos FC wrote on social media. “The sacred jersey, of inestimable value, with the number immortalized by the King. The 10 of Neymar. The 10 of Messi. The 10 of Pelé. An infinite legacy in the history of soccer”.

Messi was the driving force behind Neymar’s move to Barcelona

The deep respect between the two stars dates back to the 2011 Club World Cup final, where Messi’s Barcelona defeated Neymar’s Santos 4-0. It was that encounter that convinced Neymar to fulfill his dream of playing in Europe alongside the Argentine.

Despite receiving more lucrative offers—including a ‘blank check’ from Real Madrid—Neymar’s heart was set on the Camp Nou. In a February 2025 interview with the PodPah podcast, Neymar reflected on the decision that changed his career.

“Barcelona offered me a fixed sum, while Real Madrid offered a blank check: I could have asked for whatever I wanted, even triple. Florentino Perez wanted me, but I preferred to play with Messi,” Neymar revealed. “Messi helped me from the moment I arrived at Barcelona. He supported me. I talked to him like he was my idol… I was able to learn everything from him“.

In this case, one of Neymar’s Brazil teammates, young forward Endrick, made his preference clear. In an interview with L’Equipe, the Brazilian prospect openly expressed his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo when discussing his role model. “Cristiano Ronaldo is my No. 1 idol. What I admire most is that at 40 years old, he’s still the hardest worker out of everyone else,” Endrick said.

In an era dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, it was the Portuguese superstar who left the strongest impression on Endrick. The striker also emphasized his identity as a traditional No. 9 amid ongoing debate about his position. “He’s close to retirement, but he’s still capable of playing for many more years. I hope he does,” the Brazilian added.

A product of Palmeiras’ academy, Endrick was signed by Real Madrid for €60 million at just 17 years old and was widely viewed as one of the brightest prospects of his generation. With a contract running through June 2030, the striker remained focused on gaining experience in Europe during his current stint with Olympique Lyon.

Possibility of playing against Cristiano Ronaldo

Although he was not included in Carlo Ancelotti’s most recent Brazil call-ups, Endrick remained hopeful of one day sharing the World Cup stage with his idol. “Play against Cristiano Ronaldo at the World Cup? Ah, that would be wonderful. I hope it happens — and that we win,” he said.

For that scenario to become a reality, Endrick first needed to secure a place with Brazil. His loan move to Lyon appeared to be a crucial step in that process, as the forward began to receive consistent minutes and deliver strong performances in France.

Endrick appeared in four matches for Lyon, scoring four goals and adding one assist, while also earning two MVP awards in victories. The production represented a significant boost after limited opportunities earlier in the season.

The 2025–26 campaign marked Endrick’s second year under contract with Real Madrid, but just three appearances in the first six months left him on the fringes of Brazil’s plans with the 2026 World Cup approaching. As a result, he opted for a temporary move, joining Lyon on a six-month loan after the French club paid $1.17 million to Madrid, a decision he believed could help keep his international dream alive.

“I do not know, really. I don’t know,” Neymar admitted about the next step in his professional career, via Fabrizio Romano. “I need some days now, I need to rest, disconnect then decide my future. For sure my priority always goes to Santos.”

The home stretch of the Brazilian league certainly took its toll on Neymar and everybody at Santos. Fighting for their lives on every game, the team will now need to take some time off soccer after a stressful campaign. For Neymar, it will be no different.

Neymar’s contract situation

Neymar signed a contract extension in June that keeps him under contract through the end of the 2025 season. However, that time is finally emerging on the horizon, and a decision must be made by Neymar and Santos. Needless to say, the club would like nothing more than to keep its homegrown star around. It seems the final say is in Neymar’s hands, and he will make the best decision for him and his family.

If he were to stay with the club that took him in at a very young age, he would compete in the CONMEBOL Copa Sudamericana during the 2026 campaign, as Santos will vie to add yet another trophy that is currently missing from its cabinet.

Neymar’s impact on Santos

In the 2025 Brasileirão Série A, Neymar scored eight goals and recorded one assist. Injuries and setbacks hindered his overall production, but the star still stepped up when his team needed him the most. In the second-to-last week of the season, Neymar scored a hat trick as Santos defeated Juventude 3–0 to climb out of the relegation spots in the standings.

It wasn’t always pretty, but in the end Neymar and Santos got it done. Now, fans hope he will stay to compete for silverware rather than be in the battle for relegation again.