Since his return to Santos, Neymar has been walking a tightrope. Between repeated injuries and disappointing performances, the 33-year-old striker was desperately trying to convince Carlo Ancelotti to recall him to the Seleção. But on Sunday, after the 3-2 defeat against Flamengo, an implacable verdict fell from Madrid. An influential Spanish media outlet has just dealt him the final blow, estimating that his place at the 2026 World Cup is hanging by a thread.
“Slow and shameful” – The indictment that hurts
Diario AS has crucified the Brazilian number 10. The Madrid newspaper, read by Ancelotti’s entourage, described him as
” slow “ And ” ashamed “,
emphasizing his lack of rhythm and his tendency to ” hinder the play of his teammates ». Worse: their analysis concludes that if he “does not quickly regain his level, it will be difficult for him to wear the Brazilian jersey again”. A scathing attack, which sounds like a direct warning to both the player and the coach.
During his first start in two months, Neymar actually disappointed. Despite a dangerous free kick and a header close to the goal, the former PSG seemed out of step. His late substitution angered him – he left the bench before the end – as Santos fell into the relegation zone. Images which cruelly contrast with the legendary status that he hoped to find in his training club.
Ancelotti, the merciless justice of the peace
The Brazilian coach, who once again ignored him in his latest list, has already sent clear messages: Neymar must “play more centrally” and accept a “false 9” role. But time is running out: Ancelotti admitted to being “close to stopping his group” for 2026. The performance against Flamengo, added to these criticisms from Spain, comes at the worst time for the player, now with his back against the wall.
Between a club threatened with relegation, recurring injuries and this media condemnation, Neymar is living his worst nightmare. Even his protests against the refereeing (“he is arrogant, he threatens me”) now seem like diversions. The 2026 World Cup, its ultimate objective, is moving dangerously away. There remains one hope: a possible transfer to Inter Miami. But for many, the fatal blow has already been dealt.
