Neymar Remains Central To Brazil's World Cup Strategy, Says Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar remains central to Brazil’s World Cup plans, even with current injury concerns. The forward is part of the 26-player squad for the 2026 tournament, despite a recent setback with Santos and a long spell out for the national team. Ancelotti stressed that Brazil will keep faith with the original list as preparations continue.

Neymar, now 34, has not featured for Brazil since October 2023, following several physical issues. The attacker still received a call-up, although a problem suffered with Santos on May 17 forced Neymar to miss three club matches. Ancelotti nevertheless preferred Neymar to Joao Pedro, who impressed during a strong first season with Chelsea.

Ancelotti explained that no replacements are planned before the tournament kicks off. The coach made clear Brazil are prepared to wait for Neymar’s return to full fitness if needed. Ancelotti said: We expect Neymar for the first World Cup game against Morocco, Ancelotti said. If he cannot make it, we will wait for the second game. We are not changing anyone. The players chosen are these 26, and these 26 will play in the World Cup.

The Italy-born coach also outlined how Neymar fits into the tactical structure for this World Cup. Ancelotti held one-to-one talks with Neymar to clarify expectations in and out of possession. Neymar understood very well the role he has to play in this World Cup. Every day he is doing very well. He is working very well to recover as soon as possible, Ancelotti added. He is in a good environment, but the important thing for him is to clearly understand his role, and I think he has understood it very well.

Brazil’s medical staff are managing a tight schedule around Neymar’s recovery. Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar stated that Neymar could be sidelined for as long as three weeks. That projection rules Neymar out of Brazil’s warm-up games against Panama and Egypt, leaving coaching staff to test other attacking options before the tournament while still planning around Neymar.

Brazil open their World Cup Group C campaign against Morocco on June 13. The team then face Haiti and Scotland as Brazil look to reach the knockout rounds again. Neymar is heading into a fourth World Cup, having scored eight goals and delivered three assists in 13 appearances at FIFA’s flagship competition, underlining long-term importance for the national side.

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Only three Brazilian players have contributed to more goals at World Cup finals than Neymar. Ronaldo Nazario has 19 direct goal contributions, Pele has 18 and Jairzinho has 12. Those figures show why Ancelotti continues to value Neymar’s presence. The decision to pick Neymar ahead of Joao Pedro reflects trust in tournament experience and past output on football’s biggest stage.

Neymar’s status as Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, combined with four World Cup campaigns, keeps focus on recovery timelines. Brazil’s staff, including Ancelotti and Rodrigo Lasmar, continue to work around the forward’s condition, expecting contribution once fit. The squad enters Group C with Neymar still considered a key figure, even if early minutes in the tournament require careful management.