Neymar’s Redemption Arc? Carlo Ancelotti Says Brazil Door Is Open For 2026 FIFA WC

Last Updated:October 14, 2025, 14:01 IST

Neymar Jr. eyes a Brazil return with Carlo Ancelotti’s support after injury setbacks and a failed stint at Al Hilal.

Neymar had earlier stated that he wanted to play his 'last World Cup' (X)

It’s been nearly two years since Neymar Jr. last wore the iconic yellow jersey of Brazil, but his potential return to the Seleção is once again on the radar — and this time, it’s with the blessing of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

A Career Rebuilt After Injury and Uncertainty

Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil came in October 2023, during a World Cup qualifier that ended in heartbreak.

Just weeks after joining Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in a blockbuster €90 million move, the forward tore his anterior cruciate ligament on international duty — an injury that kept him sidelined for almost a full year.

Although Neymar made several attempts to return, recurring muscular issues limited his playing time. His struggles eventually led to the mutual termination of his contract with Al Hilal, a dramatic chapter in what had once been one of football’s most glittering careers.

Now 33, Neymar has found solace and stability back at Santos, the club where his story began.

Since rejoining the Brazilian side earlier this year, he has contributed six goals and three assists in 21 appearances, showing flashes of the flair and creativity that once made him one of the world’s most feared forwards.

Ancelotti Open to Recall: “When Neymar’s Fit, He Belongs Anywhere"

When asked about Neymar’s chances of returning to the national setup, Carlo Ancelotti — the first foreign-born head coach in Brazil’s history — offered an endorsement of the veteran’s ability and character.

“Neymar can play at his highest level in this team without any problems," Ancelotti said on Monday.

“When he is in good physical condition, he has the quality to play not only in Brazil but in any team in the world because of his talent."

Ancelotti, who took charge of Brazil following his trophy-laden tenure at Real Madrid, emphasized that his main priority is to restore Brazil’s dominance on the world stage — and that a fit, focused Neymar could still play a role in that mission.

“My goal is to give my best for the Brazil national team, to help them perform at their best and win the World Cup," he said.

“Of course, no foreign-born coach has ever won the World Cup — but there is always a first time."

Competition Fierce in Brazil’s New Generation

Despite Ancelotti’s openness, Neymar’s path back to the Seleção won’t be easy. Brazil’s new generation of attackers has flourished in his absence, with Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes, and Raphinha becoming mainstays in the starting lineup.

Emerging stars like João Pedro, Savinho, and 17-year-old sensation Estêvão Willian — dubbed “the next big thing" — have also added depth and versatility to Brazil’s forward line.

Whether Neymar makes it back into that squad remains to be seen — but for the first time in years, the door to the national team is clearly open.

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

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