2026 World Cup: Neymar Has Two Months To Prove His Fitness – Ancelotti

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has disclosed that Neymar has two months to prove his fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not featured for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. Since returning to Santos, the former Barcelona and PSG forward has struggled to maintain a consistent run of matches.

Speaking with French newspaper L’Equipe, the former Real Madrid manager stated that he’s leaving the door open for the forward to play at the next biggest football event.

“He’s a great talent, and it’s normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup,” Ancelotti said in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe.

“He’s currently being evaluated by the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation), by me, and he still has two months to show that he has the ‌qualities to play in the next World Cup.

“After his ​knee injury, Neymar has made a good ‌comeback; he’s scoring goals. He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness. He’s on the right track.”

Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. The Seleção will begin their campaign on June 13 in New Jersey.