“I've Done My Best” — Neymar Hits Back at Critics and Declares Himself Fit

Neymar insists he deserves World Cup Spot after battling back from injury  

Neymar says he has dealt with unfair criticism during his injury comeback and believes he has proven he is fit enough for Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad.

“I've made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance...”

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar said he had to deal with “nonsense” criticism while working his way back from serious injuries. He believes he has done everything possible to prove he is fully fit and deserves a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad.

The Santos forward has not played for Brazil since 2023. A knee injury and subsequent operation kept him out for a year. Brazil coach Ancelotti has made clear that Neymar must be fully fit and playing well to be considered for a World Cup spot.

“Physically, I feel great. I've been improving with every game,” Neymar told reporters after Santos' 3-0 defeat by Coritiba on Sunday.

“I've done my absolute best - it wasn't easy. I'll admit it wasn't easy.

“It's been years of hard work, and also ⁠of a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing. It’s really sad the way people talk about it.

“I worked hard, quietly, at home, ‌suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out.

“I've made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance, with everything I’ve done so far... Whatever happens, Ancelotti will certainly call up the 26 best players for this battle.”

During Sunday’s match, Neymar was caught up in an angry protest after being substituted in error. The timing could not have been worse for the 34-year-old, with Ancelotti set to announce his World Cup squad on Monday.

Brazil are aiming for a record sixth World Cup title. They will face Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in Group C during the tournament in North America, which runs from June 11th to July 19th.