Neymar's World Cup Hopes: Ancelotti's Verdict

Neymar's two-month countdown to prove himself to Ancelotti

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti gives Neymar two months to prove himself for 2026 World Cup spot. Will the forward meet expectations?

“He's currently being evaluated by the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation), by me, and he still has two months to show that he...”

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is keeping Neymar's World Cup hopes alive, saying the forward has two months to prove himself. Ancelotti wants Neymar fit and performing at his best.

Neymar was left out of Brazil's recent friendlies against France and Croatia, but Ancelotti insists he's “on the right track” towards a potential World Cup call-up.

Neymar, Brazil's top scorer with 79 goals, hasn't played for the national team since a serious knee injury in October 2023. He's been struggling to find consistency since returning to Santos last year.

Brazil fans chanted Neymar's name after the 2-1 loss to France, but Ancelotti initially played down the reaction, focusing on the selected players. Now, he's keeping the door open for Neymar.

Neymar's situation is still being considered as Brazil looks ahead to the World Cup (June 11th - July 19th) in North America and Mexico.

“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.

🚨 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧: Neymar has more G/A in the last 10 games than ALL the Brazilian attackers Carlo Ancelotti called for the international break:

• Neymar: 12 G/A
• Raphinha: 8 G/A
• Vinicius: 7 G/A
• Joao Pedro: 6 G/A
• Igor Thiago: 6 G/A
• Endrick: 5 G/A
• Rayan: 5 G/A
•… pic.twitter.com/wpmb0nUTEV

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) April 3, 2026

“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.”

Read Also: Ancelotti Shrugs Off Neymar Chants After Brazil Lose to France

Brazil is in Group C with Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. They'll kick off their World Cup campaign on June 13 at New Jersey Stadium.

Can Neymar Make the Cut for Brazil's 2026 World Cup Squad?