34-year-old has not played for Brazil since October 2023 and a call-up for March and April’s friendlies is now in doubt
Brazil’s Neymar is not sure if he will be called up to the Seleção for the 2026 World Cup but knows he will cheer for Brazil no matter what.
The Brazilian had a frustrating outing for Santos in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Corinthians, struggling to influence the match in his final opportunity to impress national team boss Carlo Ancelotti before the coach names his squad for upcoming friendlies.
Brazil play France and then Croatia in the US as they prepare for this summer’s tournament. Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023. He has struggled with injuries since but has had significant improvement at Santos, where he helped the side survive relegation last season.
Ancelotti attended Santos’ game against Mirassol last Tuesday but Neymar did not play. Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda said the 34-year-old was not injured but had instead been rested to manage his game time. Sources say Ancelotti was not aware Neymar would not play until only a few hours before the game.
Neymar would be highly disappointed not to play in his fourth World Cup, the last of his career.
“I wish to go back to the national team and play in the World Cup, but that’s not up to me,” Neymar said after the match in Santos. “Whether I am there or not, I will always cheer for Brazil.”
The 34-year-old remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, ahead of the legendary Pele.
