TThe debate over Neymar’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered a new chapter. And this time I’m supporting Santos’ number 10.
Young Brazilian tennis star Ju Fonseca has backed Ney, insisting his experience could be crucial to Canarinha’s success in soccer’s biggest tournament.
Fonseca wants to meet Ney at the World Cup
There are 67 days until the start of the tournament, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19, but Neymar’s participation remains uncertain.
The 19-year-old tennis star, who is set to compete in the Monte Carlo Masters 1000, joins many calls for Carletto to bring back his star player for Brazil.
“I believe Brazil can host a good World Cup. I’m in favor of Neymar being in the World Cup because his track record and experience will be an added factor. Of course I’m not the biggest soccer expert – this is just my opinion – but I’m definitely rooting for Brazil to win,” he told ESPN (via OneFootball).
Although Chu says he is “not a soccer expert,” he is well known in the tennis world. He is ranked in the world’s top 25 and has won two titles, the ATP 250 in Buenos Aires and the ATP 500 in Basel, as well as being nominated for the 2025 Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award.
Meanwhile, Fonseca’s comments came amid intense debate in Brazil. Neymar has not been called up by manager Carlo Ancelotti recently as his fitness and stability following an injury have been questionable.
As ESPN recently reported, the Italian coach has effectively finalized the 26-man roster that will represent Verde Amarella, but the number 10 is not named on it.
Despite the circumstances, Fonseca’s support reflects the sentiment of some in the public and in Brazilian sports who believe that the legendary number 10’s experience could be a key asset for the national team as they aim for a sixth World Cup title, similar to that of Mourinho, Romario, Ronaldo Nazario or Cuff.
Meanwhile, the final decision rests with Caret, who is expected to announce the final squad for the World Cup on May 18th.
