Neymar Keeps Pushing For The 2026 World Cup And Sends Message To Carlo Ancelotti
Brazil’s No. 10 is enjoying his best form in months… right as the World Cup squad decisions approach.
Neymar is showing up at the perfect time
Just when it seemed he was completely out of the conversation for the 2026 World Cup, Neymar has started doing what he does best again: delivering on the pitch.
The Brazilian forward is enjoying one of his best stretches since returning to Santos, and with Carlo Ancelotti beginning to shape Brazil’s World Cup squad, Neymar appears determined not to miss football’s biggest stage.
Another goal to catch Ancelotti’s attention
Neymar once again proved decisive this weekend during Santos’ 2-0 victory over Bragantino in the Brasileirao. The Brazilian scored in first-half stoppage time at 45+5, continuing a run of performances that is beginning to completely change the narrative surrounding his fitness and form.
And it was not an isolated moment either. Just days earlier, Neymar also found the net during Santos’ away match against Deportivo Recoleta in the Copa Sudamericana, showing increasing rhythm, confidence, and influence in key matches.
The numbers are backing him up
Beyond the eye test, Neymar’s statistics are also becoming impossible to ignore. Across his last 17 matches, the Brazilian has recorded 11 goals and 4 assists, directly contributing to 15 goals for Santos.
The numbers also show that the former Barcelona and PSG star produces either a goal or an assist almost every 98 minutes — a level of efficiency that naturally puts him back into the national team discussion.
Brazil remains divided over Neymar
The striker’s situation continues to generate debate across Brazil. For months, recurring injuries seemed to have completely closed the door on his international future.
However, legendary figures like Romário have publicly defended Neymar’s inclusion, insisting that his experience, leadership, and talent remain vital for a Brazilian squad currently navigating a generational transition.
Ancelotti still has doubts
According to reports from Brazil, Neymar is expected to be included in the preliminary squad list sent to FIFA, although his place in the final 26-man roster remains uncertain.
The main concern for Carlo Ancelotti continues to be Neymar’s physical condition and whether he can handle the intensity of a World Cup tournament. But with every passing game, the Brazilian seems determined to make that decision increasingly difficult for the Italian coach.
The World Cup remains his obsession
At 34 years old, Neymar knows this could very well be the final World Cup opportunity of his career. That reality appears to be fueling every performance he delivers with Santos.
With goals, assists, and increasingly convincing displays, the Brazilian is trying to prove that he still has something important to offer the Seleção… and that he is far from ready to walk away from football’s biggest stage.
