Ancelotti does not guarantee Neymar in Brazil, but pressure grows from legends to call him up for the 2026 World Cup

The future of Neymar with the selection of Brazil national football team remains a mystery, but more and more influential voices in Brazilian football are pushing for it to be present in the 2026 World Cup.

In the run-up to the friendly against France national football teamthe selector Carlo Ancelotti He made his position clear: he listens to all opinions, but the final decision will be his alone.

“Everyone has their opinion, because football is not an exact science. I respect everyone, but my job is to make the best decision for the team.”

A message that reflects calm, but also the growing pressure surrounding the Italian coach.

Brazil legends push for Neymar

The debate about Neymar has escalated in Brazil, especially due to public support from historical figures.

The former forward Romario He was one of the most forceful in defending his call, even if he is not one hundred percent physically.

For Romário, talent must come before any other consideration:

The national team must prioritize individual quality, and Neymar continues to be a differential player.

Along the same lines, he expressed Ronaldo Nazáriowho assured that, if he recovers his form, Neymar will be decisive:

“If he is physically well, he will certainly be called up.”

The midfielder also added to that support Fabinhowho did not hesitate to point out that the attacker continues to be the most talented player in the country and capable of deciding important games.

Neymar risks his place in Santos

As the debate grows off the field, Neymar has the opportunity to respond on it.

The forward, currently in Santos FCwill have around eight games to demonstrate his physical and football condition before Ancelotti defines the final list.

His performance in this section will be key to convincing the coach that he can reach the World Cup in conditions.

Brazil prepares to face important rivals

The Brazilian team enters the final phase of preparation with demanding friendlies against France national football team and Croatia national football teammatches that will serve as a thermometer before the big event.

In that context, the presence—or absence—of Neymar has become one of the big topics to follow.

An open debate towards the 2026 World Cup

For now, there is no final decision.

But what is clear is that the Neymar case has gone from being a simple sporting question to a national debate that involves legends, fans and the team’s own entourage.

The last word will be Carlo Ancelottibut the pressure grows.

And in Brazil, few names generate as much consensus—and as much expectation—as that of Neymar.