New Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has described Neymar as a key part of his plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has encouraged the star forward to focus on getting back to full fitness.
Speaking in an interview with the South American football federation on Thursday, Ancelotti emphasized Neymar’s importance to the national team despite his recent struggles with injuries.
“He must prepare well, and he has the time to do that,” said the Italian tactician. “He’s a very important player for us in view of the World Cup.”
Neymar, 33, recently extended his contract with Santos until the end of the year. However, the forward has been hampered by injuries and has managed just 12 appearances in the past five months for the Brazilian club, scoring three goals.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar was not included in Ancelotti’s first squad announced in late May. Despite his absence, the five-time world champions secured qualification for the 2026 tournament with a 1-0 victory over Paraguay earlier this month.
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