At 33, with scars from injuries and chapters already written in Europe, the Middle East, and South America, Neymar still speaks like a man who believes his greatest international moment has not yet arrived. As Brazil looks toward 2026 and Carlo Ancelotti prepares to shape a new World Cup cycle, one voice has cut through the noise—confident, emotional, and unmistakably defiant. The Santos star has delivered a message that blends ambition with accountability, a declaration aimed squarely at the national team coach and millions of supporters watching closely. This is not nostalgia; it’s a challenge.
Neymar’s latest club campaign did not begin with headlines about goals or titles. It began with pressure. Back at Santos, the club of his roots, the veteran was tasked with something far removed from glamour: survival. The Peixe were flirting dangerously with relegation, and expectations were heavy.
When the season reached its most critical phase, Neymar stepped forward. He became the central figure in Santos’ late revival, scoring and creating in decisive moments as the club pulled itself clear of the drop zone and finished safely in mid-table. Four goals in the final three games told the story clearly—when the Peixe needed leadership, Neymar delivered. That closing run did more than save a season. It reopened his World Cup dream.
Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023, when a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay ended with a devastating knee injury—an ACL and meniscus tear that sidelined him for months. The recovery was long, both physically and mentally.
Neymar last appeared for the Brazil national team in October 2023.
Adding to the uncertainty, Neymar has not yet received a call-up from Ancelotti, whose arrival has ushered in a new era for the Selecao. The absence sparked debate across Brazil: should the team move on, or should it wait for its all-time top scorer to reclaim his place? His answer has been consistent—he refuses to give up.
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What did Neymar say?
That resolve crystallized during a public event in Sao Paulo alongside singer Thiaguinho. On stage, Neymar addressed Brazil not with caution, but conviction. He spoke about responsibility, belief, and the weight of wearing yellow again. Then came the line that changed the conversation. “We will do everything possible, even the impossible, to bring this World Cup back to Brazil.”
Moments later, Neymar turned directly toward the future—and toward Ancelotti. Just then, he unveiled the promise he had been holding back: “If we reach the final, I promise to score.” Nine words, no ambiguity, no safety net.
What is Ancelotti’s stance?
Ancelotti, for his part, has been clear-eyed. The Italian coach has welcomed Neymar’s ambition but refused to offer guarantees. “If Neymar deserves to be there, if he’s doing well, if he’s better than someone else, he will play in the World Cup. I don’t owe anything to anyone,” Ancelotti explained.
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It is a message that aligns with his career philosophy: status does not select squads—form does. The final list will be decided in May, after the March international window provides clarity on fitness and rhythm. For Neymar, that sets a clear condition: talent alone will not be enough.
Shortly after the season ended, the Brazilian side confirmed Neymar had undergone knee surgery to address a medial meniscus issue. According to Globo Esporte, the experienced forward is expected to return to training within a month, placing him in a race against time—but not outside it. The goal is simple: return fit, return sharp, and return relevant.
