Cafu says Neymar is better than Messi and highlights the lack of support in the Brazilian team By Bruna
4 min read
 |
Former right-back and world champion Cafu generated repercussions when he declared on the Podpah podcast that, in his opinion, Neymar surpasses Lionel Messi in technical quality. The idol of the Brazilian national team of 1994 and 2002 defended the current Santos player and pointed out that the striker alone assumed great responsibility over 15 years in the national team. Cafu added that, when Neymar reaches his best physical shape, he can play for any team in the world without his superiority being challenged.
These words came amid the delicate moment experienced by the number 10, who turned 34 in February and faces challenges to regain his full competitive rhythm. Neymar was not called up by Carlo Ancelotti for the friendlies on Fifa in March, a decision justified by the need for players in ideal physical condition. The Italian coach has been following the athlete’s evolution since his return to Santos, after a long recovery from a serious injury to his left knee suffered in 2023.
- Neymar has a history of injuries that have limited his run in the national team since October 2023.
- The striker seeks to regain consistency in matches for Santos to convince the coaching staff.
- Ancelotti indicated that he will observe physical and technical performance until the final definition of the list for the Copa of the Mundo of 2026.
Cafu’s personal opinion on Neymar’s talent
Cafu reinforced that his vision represents an individual point of view and not an absolute comparison with the titles won by Messi throughout his career. The former captain recalled that Neymar played for long periods without a partner of equivalent level to share the offensive, defensive and leadership demands on the field. Ele cited the constant need to take free kicks, corners and deal with external pressures such as referees, fans and the press.
This solitary burden would differentiate the context experienced by the Brazilian in relation to other stars who had more balanced squads. Cafu also highlighted that Neymar has a variety of technical tools, including dribbling, game vision and finishing, which would place him above names like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when at the top of his game.
Repercussion of the statement on networks and among fans
Cafu’s speech quickly circulated among football fans and generated divided opinions on different platforms. Parte from the audience chimed in with the praise for Neymar’s pure talent, while another defended Messi’s collective and individual achievements, including world titles and accumulated individual awards. The debate reinforced how comparisons between generations mobilize heated discussions in sport.
Many Brazilian fans saw in Cafu’s words a gesture of encouragement to the player who still dreams of participating in the Copa of Mundo in 2026.
Current condition of Neymar on Santos and selection
Neymar returned to Santos at the beginning of 2026 after spells at European and Asian clubs. Ele has been working to overcome the effects of successive injuries that kept him away from the national team for almost two years. The technical committee of the Brazilian team closely monitors its evolution in training and matches for the São Paulo club.
Ancelotti has already signaled that the door remains open for Neymar if he demonstrates physical fitness in the coming months. The friendlies against França and Croácia served as important tests for the team, but without the presence of the striker. Preparation for the Mundial of 2026 remains underway with a focus on collective balance.
Physical and technical challenges faced by Neymar in recent years
The player dealt with recurring problems with his knee and other areas of his body, which reduced his performance at a high level. Mesmo thus, he maintains his status as the greatest scorer in the history of the Brazilian team and a technical reference for new generations. The support of figures like Cafu highlights the recognition of the potential that still exists.
The expectation around Neymar involves not only individual performance, but also its integration into a group that seeks to build a solid campaign in Copa of Mundo. Treinadores and colleagues have emphasized the importance of gradual preparation to avoid relapse.
Cafu’s perspective on the forward’s future
Cafu concluded his analysis by stating that no one would question Neymar if he was fully recovered and at an ideal playing pace. Essa statement serves as public motivation for the player to remain focused on recovery and performances for Santos. The former full-back, with experience from two world championships, knows well the pressure that surrounds the yellow shirt.
The episode on Podpah brought additional visibility to the topic of Neymar’s physical condition, just a few months before the definition of the Brazilian list for the 2026 tournament. The fans are closely following the athlete’s next steps in search of a possible triumphant return.
