Kylian Mbapp represents the feelings of many fans and the growing belief that the 2026 World Cup is unthinkable without Neymar, especially if it is to be Neymar’s last dance on football’s biggest stage. The France star spoke without a filter before the friendly between France and Brazil, clarifying his position on his former PSG teammate.
What did Mbapp say about Neymar’s absence from Brazil?
The Real Madrid striker was asked by Globo Esporte whether this Brazilian team belongs to Vinicius Junior or if it still revolves around Neymar.
“I think it goes both ways,” he said with a laugh. “Vini needs to take a new step with the national team, but Neymar is Neymar. He is a great player. The FIFA World Cup is a tournament of stars. It’s full of stars and for me Neymar is one of the greatest players. I can’t imagine a World Cup without Neymar. But at the end of the day, I can’t go against my former manager Carlo Ancelotti. I have to respect his decision.”
Mbapp, who shared a dressing room with Neymar at Paris Saint-Germain, made it clear that he believes the Brazilian star is ready for the 2026 World Cup.
“For me, Neymar is a player who makes a difference. I played with him and learned a lot from him. We have to see how he is, but I know him. He is ready and will be there,” he asserted.
The France forward also pointed to the match against Brazil, one of the standout matches in FIFA international competition, and avoided calling his team favorites.
“You can never be a favorite against a team with five stars on the jersey. It’s impossible. Brazil is the biggest power in football. For us, this is an opportunity to show our quality and prepare to win the 2026 World Cup,” he explained.
Finally, Mbapp compared the two coaches Didier Deschamps and Carlo Ancelotti, highlighting their contrasting styles and what he learned from both during his career as an elite footballer.
“The best thing is that they are completely different and have different visions of football. For me, this is a great opportunity because I get to learn two ways to win. I’m proud to have Deschamps and to have worked with Carlo. I have the utmost respect and admiration for him,” he concluded.
