Neymar is waiting anxiously for Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad announcement for the 2026 World Cup, with the veteran forward determined to add another international tournament to his legendary career. The Santos star has made no secret of his desperation to represent the Seleção in the United States, Canada and Mexico, treating his fitness recovery as a stepping stone toward that singular goal.
The 34-year-old caught media attention after Santos' 3-0 loss to Coritiba in the Brazilian Serie A when he appeared in a striking green and yellow jacket. Many observers assumed it was a subtle message to the national team selection committee, but Neymar quickly clarified the garment's true origin. "This jacket was a gift from a friend of mine, who is Beckham's son, Romeo Beckham," he explained. "He even wrote something about the Olympics here. I told him I was going to wear it. That's why it wasn't to send any kind of message."
Fitness and Frustration: Neymar's Long Road Back
Neymar's journey back to peak condition has been arduous and heavily scrutinized. He has spent months working through a demanding rehabilitation process, driven primarily by his hunger to feature on football's biggest stage. "Obviously, it's my dream, I've always made that very clear to you. It's to be at the World Cup. I worked for that," he said in his post-match remarks.
The false nine and winger has repeatedly defended his commitment against critics who questioned his dedication while sidelined. "There were years of hard work, but also a lot of misinformation about my conditions and what I did. It's very sad the way people talk about it. I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people said," Neymar stated. He emphasized that physical condition is no longer a concern: "Physically, I feel very well. I've been improving with every game, I did the best I could. I confess it wasn't easy."
A Legacy Built to Last
Neymar remains Brazil's all-time leading international scorer, surpassing even Pelé's tally during his illustrious career with the national team. This landmark achievement underscores his value to any squad looking to challenge for World Cup glory. His pedigree at club level—from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain to his current stint at Santos—demonstrates a track record of performing under pressure across multiple continents.
Despite Sunday's disappointment, where an administrative mix-up saw him substituted by mistake, Neymar maintains unwavering focus on the selection committee's decision. "May tomorrow be whatever God wills. Regardless of what happens, Ancelotti will call up the 26 best players for this battle," he said with a mixture of resignation and hope. The world will soon learn whether his fitness recovery and determination have convinced Ancelotti that the veteran can still deliver when it matters most at international level.
