Neymar's non-conqueror by Carlo Ancelotti continues to debate in Brazil. Officially, the coach spoke of new physical concerns to explain the absence of the attacker. A version that arouses questions, as the former PSG and Barça player seems determined to resume his place in the Seleção for the 2026 World Cup.
Santos brings another truth about Neymar
Returning to his training club, Neymar benefits from meticulous medical follow -up. According to Doctor Rodrigo Zogaib, the attacker has no major problem and even finds himself “In excellent condition”. Slight discomfort to the adductor against Vasco, settled in a few days, and a chain of 90 minutes disputed against Fluminense are advanced as evidence of its found solidity. For Santos, dismissing it from the Seleção for medical reasons therefore does not make sense.
Since his serious knee injury in 2023, Neymar had no longer chained as many complete matches. Eight consecutive meetings with Santos, all disputed entirely, constitute a recent record in his career. Its detractors often point to its chronic fragility, but its current performances testify to a regularity which contrasts with its recent past in Europe.
A credibility duel
The contrast between the discourse of Ancelotti and that of Santos questions. The Italian coach defends himself from any bias, but his choice leaves a doubt about Neymar's real place in his plans. For their part, the Paulist leaders insist: the star is ready and deserves to be at the heart of the Brazilian project. This showdown highlights a divergence that could weigh on the balance of the Seleção.
With 79 goals in 128 selections, Neymar remains the top scorer in the history of Brazil. At 33, he still dreams of a global coronation that lacks his record. On Sunday, he will crowd the Arena MRV lawn against Atlético-MG, a new test to prove that he is indeed ready. For Ancelotti, time is running out: prolonged exclusion from number 10 risks fueling a debate that he would have preferred to avoid.
