Neymar expressed his desire to return to Brazil’s national team but acknowledged that the decision is not his to make.
“I wish to go back to the national team and play in the World Cup, but that’s not up to me,” Neymar stated following a subdued performance in a recent match.
Neymar’s comments come after a 1-1 draw between Santos and Corinthians, where he was held without a goal. This match marked a significant moment as it was his last appearance before the announcement of Brazil’s squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, which will be crucial for final World Cup preparations.
Despite being Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals, Neymar’s path to the World Cup has been troubled. He has played less than 10 matches for Santos this year, primarily due to an ACL injury he suffered in October 2023, which required knee surgery in December.
His limited appearances have raised concerns about his form and fitness as the World Cup approaches. Neymar’s last notable performance was in February, where he scored two goals against Vasco da Gama, but since then, his contributions have dwindled.
In light of these challenges, Neymar remains optimistic about his future with the national team. “Whether I am there or not, I will always cheer for Brazil,” he added, reflecting his enduring support for his country.
The upcoming friendlies will serve as a pivotal moment for Neymar and the coaching staff, led by Carlo Ancelotti, as they assess his readiness for the World Cup. The final squad announcement will follow these matches, determining Neymar’s fate.
As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Neymar can reclaim his spot on the national team. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his selection for the World Cup, but his desire to compete remains evident.
