Lionel Messi defends Neymar’s call-up for the World Cup and praises the striker’s talent By Thiago Lemos
4 min read
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Lionel Messi stated that he wants to see Neymar in Copa of Mundo in 2026. The Argentine star gave an interview to the channel “Lo Del Pollo” and reinforced that the Santos striker is fundamental to the sport. The statement comes days before Seleção Brasileira’s official listing. Carlo Ancelotti will announce those selected on May 18th. Messi highlighted that the presence of the best athletes enhances the world tournament.
The friendship between the two players, which began at Barcelona, weighed heavily on the words of the Argentina captain. Ele admitted that he cannot be completely neutral when talking about the Brazilian. Messi hopes that his friend will regain his leading role in Catar. The Santos striker has not worn the yellow jersey since the end of 2023. His return is one of the central themes of the national sports press.
Lionel Messi analyzes the importance of Neymar for world football
The Argentina star was emphatic in placing Neymar on a different level within the sport. Para the number 10, the national team tournament needs to feature the brightest figures on the planet. Ele believes that the attacker maintains his technical quality even after long periods of inactivity. The Argentine’s argument is that the Brazilian’s natural talent overrides any fluctuation.
The technical analysis of Messi points out that Neymar is an irreplaceable player in the Brasil structure. The star highlighted that world football wins when Santos is on the field. Ele reinforced the idea that his friend deserves to experience great moments in the final stretch of his career.
- Messi and Neymar performed together for four seasons on Barcelona.
- The duo won Champions League in 2015.
- The Argentine won the last Copa of Mundo played in Catar.
- Neymar returned to Santos to seek rhythm in the game towards 2026.
- The Brasil roster will be released in ten days.
Messi’s influence could serve as an external endorsement for the Brazilian coaching staff. Carlo Ancelotti monitors the performance of veterans and young talent to round out the group. The Santos striker fights against time to prove that he is physically fit for the challenge.
Carisma and Neymar’s personality receive praise from the Argentine star
Além’s technical ability, Messi made a point of addressing the personal side of his former clubmate. Ele described the Brazilian as someone who lives authentically and transparently. The Argentine admires the way Neymar deals with external criticism and maintains his joy. Essa’s posture is seen by the Albiceleste captain as a competitive differentiator.
Messi declared that Seleção’s number 10 does not pretend to be someone he is not. Ele lives each moment according to his feelings, without worrying excessively about media repercussions. Essa genuine happiness would help keep the locker room environment light during a short competition. Neymar’s special charisma has been cited as one of the reasons for his global popularity.
The Argentine captain reiterated that Neymar is a true person in all his actions. Ele wishes his friend luck in the next steps of his professional career. The public support of a figure like Messi generates noise behind the scenes of South American football.
Seleção Brasileira’s Calendário before Mundo’s Copa debut
Brasil has commitments scheduled before starting the official journey in the tournament. The team will face teams from different continents to adjust the final tactical details. Carlo Ancelotti will use these friendlies to observe the offensive movement with and without Neymar. CBF’s planning foresees games at América and at neutral venues.
The final preparation will serve to measure the impact of Messi’s recent statements on the Brazilian group. Players who already play with Santos usually reinforce their request for a call-up. The final decision rests with the Italian coach, who values the balance between physicality and technique.
- Brasil x Panamá – May 31st, at 5pm (Amistoso on national soil).
- Brasil x Egito – June 6th, at 7pm (Amistoso in neutral venue).
- Brasil x Marrocos – June 13th, at 7pm (official Estreia on Copa of Mundo).
Expectations surrounding Neymar’s name should grow until next Monday. The striker has intensified his training at CT Rei Pelé to convince the coaching staff. Messi, in turn, remains focused on preparing Argentina to defend the title.
Perspectivas for Carlo Ancelotti’s final call-up in May
The release of the list on May 18 will end months of speculation about the Brazilian attack. Ancelotti has detailed reports on the performance of all selectable athletes. The coach seeks to assemble a squad capable of withstanding the physical intensity of contemporary matches. Neymar is the highest scorer in the history of Seleção, a factor that weighs in the balance.
Analistas sports indicate that the number 10’s experience is an asset for the young squad. Messi agrees with this vision and projects a strong Brasil in the fight for the title. The Argentine’s opinion resonates with fans who still believe in the decisive potential of the Santos idol.
Resta awaits the CBF’s official statement at the entity’s headquarters, at Rio of Janeiro. The presence or absence of Neymar will set the tone for news coverage in the following days. Messi’s support makes it clear that, for the big names in football, the Brazilian’s place is indisputable. The future of the star at Seleção will be sealed in a few days.
