Romario: "Brazil Only has a Chance to Win The 2026 World Cup if Neymar Plays"
In a powerful reflection, Romario, the 1994 World Cup champion with Brazil, shared his thoughts on the Brazilian national team’s chances to win the next World Cup in 2026. Despite being the most successful team in World Cup history, with five titles, Brazil’s current situation is less promising, especially after a challenging start to the Qualifiers, with Brazil in fifth place, seven points behind Argentina, the leader in South American qualifying.
Romario is clear about Brazil’s future in the next World Cup. The former footballer asserts that the only way to secure a sixth title depends on a fully recovered Neymar. "Brazil needs players who can solve problems. Only Neymar has the ability to do that. If he doesn't play, we won’t win," he stated firmly. Romario, who was instrumental in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup win, compared the current situation to those moments when the team played for legends like Pelé, Garrincha, Ronaldo, and himself.
For the former striker, the Brazil coach must build the team around Neymar, who is currently recovering from his injury in Saudi Arabia. While other talented players like Vinícius Jr. are part of the squad, Romario believes that Neymar’s presence in top form is crucial for Brazil to have a chance at lifting the 2026 World Cup trophy. "If we don't play for Neymar, it will be very difficult," he emphasized.
The situation for Brazil is uncertain, but Romario highlights some local players who, in his opinion, could contribute to the team in the near future. He mentioned Luis Henrique, Pedro, and Gabriel Barbosa (Gabigol) as promising talents. However, the main focus remains on Neymar, whose return to the elite of world football could be the key to the Canarinha's revival in the fight for the World Cup title.
The legendary Brazilian forward concluded with a clear message: "For Brazil to have a chance at winning the 2026 World Cup, the team must be built around Neymar. If not, the chances of success will be minimal." With a team still in the process of being built, all eyes in Brazilian football will be on the return of the PSG star.