The Brazilian team, under the command of Carlo Ancelotti, is considering including Neymar in the final list for the 2026 World Cup, in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The 33-year-old Santos striker would not be guaranteed a starting spot, unlike previous editions in which he played as a central player. The decision takes place seven months before the tournament, with a focus on the player’s physical condition, who needs to demonstrate consistency in games for the club.
Ancelotti emphasized the need for intensity on the field for the entire World Cup. Neymar returned to play the full 90 minutes against Palmeiras last Saturday, after 76 days inactive, but ended the duel visibly tired. The technical committee observes his performance in upcoming commitments, including the 2026 Campeonato Paulista.
The current tactical scheme prioritizes four offensive attackers without a fixed center forward. Players like Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha occupy key positions, with fierce competition for places.
Tactical scheme sets limits for shirt 10
The system adopted by Ancelotti requires attackers to put pressure on the opponent’s ball and play high. This function transforms the offensive line into an initial defensive barrier, relieving defensive midfielders like Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães.
Neymar appears as an option for the role of false 9, playing in the middle without competing on the wings. However, he would face direct competition from Vinícius Júnior, considered untouchable, and Matheus Cunha, who connects midfield and attack.
The technical committee has already outlined 18 names for thesquad of 26 players. The remaining places depend on tests in friendly matches, such as those against France and Croatia in March 2026.
Injury history influences planning
Neymar has been absent due to injuries since 2023, with a rupture in the cruciate ligament in his left knee in October of that year. The period away exceeded one year, impacting previous call-ups.
He renewed his contract with Santos until the end of 2025, with an option for an extension. The return to the pitch occurred in October, but short sequences persist, such as the muscle injury in the thigh in September.
Ancelotti spoke to the player in June, asking for full physical preparation. The coach stated that Neymar’s talent is indisputable, but intensity defines inclusion.
- Absences in 2025: Friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia in November; Qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay in June.
- Last match for the national team: October 2023, against Uruguay.
- Games as a starter: 123 in 128 official appearances.
Reactions in the cast and CBF
Members of the technical committee see the starting lineup consolidated, with the main doubt being Raphinha’s rotation between Rodrygo, Estevão and Matheus Cunha. No immediate structural adjustment accommodates Neymar without prior testing.
The CBF trusts in Ancelotti’s ability to manage egos, given his experience at European clubs. The Italian avoided controversyrecent events, such as absence justified for physical reasons, opposed by the player.
Cast supports Neymar’s presence, even as a reserve. Players highlight the motivational impact of their idol, who never started on the bench in official competitions.
Physical preparation as a decisive factor
Ancelotti revealed that the March 2026 list will indicate the definitive squad. After that, a friendly in the United States will serve as the last test before the World Cup, which starts on June 11.
Neymar needs at least 12 consistent matches until November to get on the radar. His performance at Paulista, starting in January, will be closely monitored.
The Italian coach prioritizes “top level” players for the 32-day tournament. Any physical relapse would eliminate chances, according to internal sources.
Friendly schedule tests candidates
After November 2025, the team has two duels in 2026 before the final list. The games against France and Croatia take place in the United States, simulating World Cup conditions.
These confrontations evaluate tactical adaptations and resistance. Ancelotti plans to rotate the attack to observe options like Neymar in real scenarios.
The CBF schedules an additional post-call test, against an undisclosed opponent. The focus remains on collective intensity, without individual accommodations.
The calendar includes recovery breaks, but requires availabilityand total number of athletes.
Neymar’s position in the central attack
The false 9 appears to be an ideal fit for Neymar, exploiting his vision of the game and short dribbling. However, the high marking demanded by Ancelotti contrasts with the Brazilian’s style, which is more focused on creation.
Comparisons with Matheus Cunha highlight differences: the Manchester United striker wins aerial duels and presses consistently. Statistics from 2025 show Cunha with a 65% success rate on high balls, compared to Neymar’s 42% in recent games.
Ancelotti tested variations in November friendlies, with four fluid attacks. Neymar’s arrival would require adjustments in training, limited by the tight schedule.
Peer support reinforces inclusion
Internal conversations reveal admiration for the number 10 among peers. Veterans like Danilo see value in his leadership, even without guaranteed minutes.
Young people like Estevão and Rodrygo cite Neymar as a technical reference. The group prioritizes cohesion, with luxury reserves like Raphinha already established.
The positive dynamic in the locker room makes decisions easier. Ancelotti, known for human management, uses this to balance talent and form.
