Ancelotti Urges Neymar to Regain Fitness for Brazil Return

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that Neymar must achieve full fitness to earn a national team recall ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 33-year-old last played for Brazil in October 2023 before a knee injury. Under Ancelotti, Brazil have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, scoring nine goals and conceding just one.

As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar must regain full fitness before earning a recall to the national team. The 33-year-old forward has not played for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee ligament injury.

His return to Santos last year after a brief stint in Saudi Arabia has been hampered by recurring injuries, limiting his ability to perform consistently Speaking ahead of Brazil’s friendly against Japan in Tokyo, Ancelotti praised Neymar’s talent and versatility, stating that the forward can excel in any team when fully fit. However, the Italian emphasised that physical readiness and teamwork are now his top priorities as Brazil prepare for the tournament in North America.

Since taking charge in May, Ancelotti has guided Brazil to three wins, one draw and one defeat, with the team showing defensive improvement, conceding only one goal, a penalty against Bolivia. Brazil’s recent 5-0 victory over South Korea highlighted their attacking flair, with Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Matheus Cunha, and teenage star Estevao impressing in a four-forward setup. Ancelotti reiterated that while beautiful football matters, commitment and winning mentality remain the ultimate goals.