Brazils Neymar must regain fitness before World Cup squad selection

Brazil Coach Leaves Door Open for Neymar’s Return to Squad

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that forward Neymar Jr could be considered for the national team if he regains full fitness within the next two months. The Italian manager has stated that Neymar, who has been sidelined due to a serious knee injury since October 2023, still has time to prove himself as a contender for the World Cup squad.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, was excluded from the team’s warm-up matches against France and Croatia last month. However, Ancelotti has maintained that Neymar will be in contention if he is fully fit. The forward has struggled to maintain a consistent run of matches since returning to Santos last year.

In an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe, Ancelotti acknowledged Neymar’s talent and potential impact on the team’s chances at the World Cup. “He’s a great talent,” Ancelotti said. “It’s normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup.” However, he emphasized that Neymar still needs to demonstrate his fitness and quality over the next two months.

Neymar has made a good comeback since his injury, scoring goals and improving his performance. Ancelotti believes the forward is on the right track and will continue to be evaluated by the Brazilian Football Confederation and himself. Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign on June 13 in New Jersey, competing in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland.

Source: Al Jazeera