FOr for many, Neymar was Joga Bonito’s last great representative, and while it’s been more than a year since the Brazilian No. 10 was close to his best, Verde Amarella fans and fans of football in general know that the World Cup wouldn’t have been the same without Neymar’s magic.
This 2026 World Cup has a certain melancholy feel to it, as it will be the last not only for legends such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but also for key national team players such as James Rodriguez and Memo Ochoa. These players are likely to play for the last time in national team colors, with Neymar also likely to feature, but the Brazilian idol’s health appears to be the biggest stumbling block.
What happened to Neymar?
Neymar recently played his second match after surgery, and in this match he is starting to see his rhythm improving, something backed up by the numbers as he became only the third Santos player to run the longest distance of over 9km. Still, Neymar is far from his best version, his football theory doesn’t seem good enough to be part of a team as competitive as Canarinha, and the Brasileira calendar doesn’t help either.
His recurring knee and ankle injuries prevent him from playing regularly, and Carlo Ancelotti does not take him into consideration, with his last match with the Brazilian national team set for October 2023.
Ancelotti plans with Neymar for the World Cup
Brazil national team manager Carlo Ancelotti had no immediate plans to call up the striker for friendlies against France and Croatia in the United States in March. This decision is based on medical and competitive strategy rather than a sporting penalty.
The Brazilian Football Federation continues to monitor his progress following the injury and subsequent knee surgery. The aim is for Neymar to gradually regain his rhythm before undergoing a final evaluation scheduled for May, when it will be analyzed whether he is actually fit to compete at the highest international level. Your priority is to be fit in June 2026, not now
Within the coaching staff, there is no need to see how Neymar fits into the group. His hierarchy is proven. The only thing that will determine his return is his fitness.
If they can reach the level expected of them, it will be their fourth World Cup appearance, following Brazil 2014, Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. Otherwise, he may miss out on this last chance to wear the Verdea Marella in an official competition.
