Carlo Ancelotti defended Neymar’s call for the 2026 World Cup, but made it clear that the forward will not be guaranteed a starting place. “He may play or not, he may be on the bench and come in,” stated the Italian coach after presenting Brazil’s list in Rio de Janeiro.
The coach explained that he decided to call the Santos attacker because of the continuity he has shown in recent weeks and because of the experience he can contribute within the group. “He is an important player and will be important in this World Cup”said Ancelotti.
The coach also highlighted Neymar’s influence in the locker room and assured that he can help strengthen the team’s atmosphere during the tournament. In addition, he announced that he considers him a more focused attacker within the Brazilian offensive scheme.
Ancelotti insisted that no footballer will have privileges within the Canarinha and asked not to concentrate all the pressure on Neymar. “I don’t want stars, I want players willing to help the team win games,” declared the Italian coach.
Neymar’s fourth World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be the fourth World Cup in the career of Neymar, who had not played for Brazil since October 2023 due to the knee injuries that marked the last years of his career. The Santos forward returns to the Canarinha after a long recovery process.
At 34 years old, Neymar will face the tournament with the possibility of playing in his last World Cup and with the aim of winning the only major title missing in his career. In addition, he will seek to show Carlo Ancelotti that he can earn a place in Brazil’s starting eleven.
Ancelotti names Neymar, the people explode with joy and the drums begin to beat.
Incredible moment in Brazil. 😮💨🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/TPh1pAi3Ub https://t.co/cGmXXq116P
— Sudanalytics (@sudanalytics_) May 18, 2026