Brazil's new coach believes the injured star can recover in time for 2026 despite 13 months out of football
Carlo Ancelotti has declared Neymar can still make Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, despite the forward's year-long absence from competitive football and mounting injury concerns at Al-Hilal.
The Italian coach's confidence in Brazil's all-time leading scorer comes as the 32-year-old remains sidelined with a hamstring injury that has kept him out since November 2023. With Neymar turning 34 before the tournament kicks off in North America, Ancelotti's optimism represents both a calculated risk and a potential masterstroke for Brazil's World Cup ambitions.
Ancelotti's faith in Neymar stems from more than sentiment. The veteran coach has managed ageing stars throughout his career, from Paolo Maldini at AC Milan to Luka Modric at Real Madrid.
His success rate with players over 32 is remarkable:
For Neymar, the precedent exists. But the Brazilian's situation presents unique challenges that even Ancelotti's magic touch might struggle to overcome.
Brazil have adapted their style during Neymar's absence, shifting from a possession-based approach to a more direct, counter-attacking system. The emergence of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo has given the Seleção new dimensions.
Neymar still has time to get back to being 100% and play at the FIFA World Cup
Ancelotti's words suggest he envisions a hybrid system that accommodates both the old guard and new generation. The question remains whether Neymar's body can deliver what his coach's tactics demand.
The numbers paint a sobering picture. Neymar has missed 78 matches through injury since joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, averaging 13 games out per season.
His move to Saudi Arabia was meant to reduce physical demands, yet the injury problems have intensified:
Medical experts typically recommend 12-18 months for full ACL recovery in players over 30. Add the hamstring complication, and Neymar faces a race against time.
World Cup football in 2026 will demand peak fitness across potentially seven matches in scorching North American summer heat. Players need approximately six months of consistent game time to reach tournament sharpness.
With qualifying resuming in March 2025, Neymar has a narrow window. He must return to Al-Hilal action by January 2025 to build the match fitness Ancelotti requires.
Brazil currently sit as 6/1 second favourites for the 2026 World Cup behind Argentina. Neymar's presence could slash those odds dramatically.
Historical data shows Brazil's odds shift by approximately 15-20% when Neymar plays versus when he's absent. In major tournaments, this 'Neymar effect' intensifies:
A fit Neymar transforms Brazil's entire setup. His presence allows Vinicius Junior to operate from the left, pushes Rodrygo to a super-sub role, and gives Ancelotti tactical flexibility.
For fantasy players, Neymar's inclusion would likely price him around 11.0-11.5m in official World Cup fantasy games. His ownership would exceed 40% based on past tournaments, making him essential for serious players.
Brazil currently sit fourth in CONMEBOL qualifying with 16 points from 10 matches. Neymar's return for the final eight qualifiers could prove crucial for automatic qualification and seeding purposes.
Ancelotti's public backing puts pressure on both Neymar and Al-Hilal. The Saudi club must balance their €90 million investment against Brazil's World Cup ambitions.
The next three months prove critical. If Neymar returns to training by December and plays competitively by February, Ancelotti's optimism gains credibility. Any further setbacks, however, and Brazil must prepare for their first World Cup since 1974 without their most talented player.
For punters and fantasy players, the smart money waits. Brazil at 6/1 offers value if Neymar returns. Without him, those odds look short given their qualifying struggles and defensive vulnerabilities.
Will Neymar play in the 2026 World Cup?
Carlo Ancelotti believes Neymar can recover from his current injuries in time for the tournament. However, the forward needs to return to competitive action by early 2025 and maintain fitness for 18 months to make Brazil's squad.
When does Brazil play their next World Cup qualifier?
Brazil resume their World Cup qualifying campaign in March 2025. They currently sit fourth in the CONMEBOL table with 16 points from 10 matches, needing a strong finish to secure automatic qualification.
How long has Neymar been injured?
Neymar has been out since November 2023, missing over 13 months of football. He initially suffered an ACL rupture in October 2023 while playing for Brazil, then sustained a hamstring injury during his rehabilitation.
What are Brazil's odds to win the 2026 World Cup?
Brazil are currently 6/1 second favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, behind Argentina. These odds could shorten to around 4/1 or 5/1 if Neymar returns to full fitness and form before the tournament.
Who is in Brazil's current squad without Neymar?
Brazil's attack currently features Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Gabriel Martinelli. Ancelotti has built the team around Real Madrid's Brazilian contingent, with Vinicius Junior emerging as the primary creative force in Neymar's absence.
How old will Neymar be at the 2026 World Cup?
Neymar will be 34 years old when the 2026 World Cup begins. He turns 34 in February 2026, four months before the tournament starts in North America.
Has Ancelotti managed Neymar before?
No, Carlo Ancelotti has never managed Neymar at club level. This will be their first time working together, with Ancelotti taking over as Brazil coach and publicly backing Neymar's World Cup chances despite the forward's injury struggles.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute betting advice.
Carlo Ancelotti believes Neymar can recover from his 13-month injury layoff to make Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad. However, the 32-year-old faces significant challenges given his injury history and extended absence from competitive football.
Neymar has been sidelined since November 2023 with a hamstring injury, following an ACL rupture in October 2023. He has missed 13 months of competitive football and zero matches for Al-Hilal during this period.
Brazil are currently 6/1 second favourites for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar's potential return could transform them into overwhelming tournament favourites, though his fitness remains a major question mark.
Yes, Ancelotti has an excellent track record with veteran players. He guided Luka Modric to Champions League success at 37, helped Karim Benzema win the Ballon d'Or at 34, and oversaw Andrea Pirlo's career renaissance at 32.
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