Neymar’s World Cup Dream Rests Entirely in Ancelotti’s Hands

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti faces one of the most emotionally charged decisions of his managerial career — whether to include Neymar, the Selecao’s all-time record goalscorer, in his final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the squad announcement landing today, an entire nation holds its breath. Goal.com

A Legend Fighting for One Last Shot

Neymar has been sidelined from international duty for an extended period after suffering a serious knee injury against Uruguay in 2023, leaving many supporters fearing his international journey had quietly reached its end. But the 34-year-old has refused to walk away quietly. Since returning from injury, the former Barcelona and PSG forward has contributed six goals and three assists across 13 matches in 2026 for Santos, reigniting hope among supporters who still view him as the player capable of inspiring Brazil toward a sixth World Cup crown.

The numbers behind him are impossible to dismiss — 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, making him the nation’s all-time leading scorer after surpassing Pelé in 2023, with a key role in each of the last three World Cups.

Ancelotti Holds All the Cards

Ancelotti recently acknowledged Neymar’s progress, noting that his fitness has improved and that he is now capable of maintaining high intensity during matches, while also stressing that he has complete autonomy over the selection and has not been pressured by anyone.

The Italian manager has kept the door wide open, making clear that merit alone will determine the outcome — if Neymar is doing well and performing better than his competition, he will be on the plane.

Brazil open their tournament against Morocco on June 13, and Ancelotti is tasked with leading the nation to a historic sixth World Cup title. Whether Neymar is part of that story will finally be known today — the curtain falls, and the legend either takes a bow or gets one last dance on football’s biggest stage.