Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar has improved a lot in recent weeks, but the 34‑year‑old’s World Cup fate remains unconfirmed. Ancelotti, who took over after leaving Real Madrid in May 2025, praised Neymar’s popularity among teammates, noting that a call‑up would cause no stir in the dressing room. Neymar has missed Brazil since October 2023 due to injury.

Ancelotti will name the 26‑man squad on May 18. He said he weighs pros and cons carefully, adding that he has the most information on Brazilian players this year. Neymar, Brazil’s all‑time leading scorer with 79 goals, has been highlighted by Lionel Messi as a key player for the 2026 campaign in North America.

With the World Cup deadline approaching, fans will soon learn if Neymar’s recovery suffices for a squad spot. Ancelotti’s candid remarks underline the pressure on the coach to balance talent, chemistry and injury risk. The decision will shape Brazil’s chances of adding a sixth title after the 2002 triumph.

Neymar’s return to training in early March followed a season‑long absence that saw him miss friendlies and Copa America qualifiers. His 79‑goal tally ranks him ahead of Pelé among Brazilian legends. Ancelotti’s emphasis on Neymar’s locker‑room influence reflects a broader strategy to keep the squad cohesive as the tournament’s schedule tightens.