Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazário has urged national team coach Carlo Ancelotti to bring Neymar Jr. back into the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Neymar, who holds Brazil’s all-time scoring record with 79 goals from 128 appearances, has been absent from the Selecão since October 2023. He suffered a devastating cruciate knee ligament injury against Uruguay during World Cup qualifiers, which sidelined him for nearly a year.
After recovering, the 33-year-old forward rejoined Santos, his first professional club, earlier this year. His return followed a frustrating stint at Al Hilal, where he made only five appearances and scored a single goal before injury cut his campaign short.
Since his comeback, Neymar has featured regularly for Santos, regaining rhythm and fitness.Despite this, Ancelotti has not called him up in his first four games in charge.
Speaking at a publicity event in São Paulo, Ronaldo emphasized Neymar’s unique impact on Brazil’s attack.“He is a decisive player for the Brazilian Selecão. We don’t have another player like Neymar,” Ronaldo explained.
“The people hope 100 per cent that he will go to the World Cup because if he is there, we will definitely have better results than if he’s not.”Ronaldo, who won two World Cups with Brazil and scored 62 goals in 99 appearances, highlighted the anticipation surrounding Neymar’s return.
Fans continue to hope that the forward’s experience and creativity will play a key role in Brazil’s push for a record sixth world title.Ancelotti, however, previously noted that Neymar “needs to get in better shape to help the national team and give the best of himself at the World Cup.” With the tournament approaching, Ronaldo’s backing intensifies the debate over Neymar’s place in the squad.
