Mumbai : Neymar’s hopes of playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup are fading fast, as tensions with the Brazilian Football Confederation intensify and concerns over his fitness continue to grow.
The Brazilian star had earlier indicated that the 2026 tournament could be his final World Cup appearance, but recent developments suggest that scenario is now unlikely. According to reports from CNN Brazil, sources within the federation describe Neymar’s selection as “extremely complicated” and close to impossible.
Neymar was recently left out of Brazil’s squad for upcoming World Cup warm-up matches against France and Croatia, announced by head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Reacting to the omission, Neymar expressed disappointment during an event in São Paulo and shared a video stating his determination to regain fitness and return to the national team. However, his response reportedly did not go down well within the federation.
A key incident further damaged his chances of a comeback. Ancelotti had reportedly traveled by private jet to watch Neymar play in a match between Santos FC and Mirassol FC to assess his form. However, Neymar did not feature in the game, citing workload management, and made no effort to meet or speak with the coach. The federation is said to have viewed this as a sign of poor discipline and lack of commitment.
Fitness remains a major concern for Neymar, who has struggled with recurring injuries, including a serious knee issue in 2023 that has limited his appearances. Even at Santos, he has spent significant time sidelined, raising doubts about his match readiness for international competition.
Ancelotti recently clarified in a press conference that Neymar could still be considered for the World Cup squad—but only if he achieves full fitness. For now, he remains out of contention and must prove himself through consistent performances and training.
While Neymar still has a few matches left this season with Santos to demonstrate his form, insiders suggest that a return to the national team would require nothing short of a miracle. With the federation increasingly focusing on younger players, his recent actions have only weakened his position.
At 34, Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals, but persistent injuries have significantly impacted his career.