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Time is no longer on Neymar's side. |
Time is running out for Neymar. He has less than 77 days to convince coach Carlo Ancelotti and regain his place in the Brazilian national team before the World Cup squad is finalized.
This could be the last chance in the 34-year-old striker's career. But at the moment, everything seems to be against him.
The biggest problem remains his physical condition. Neymar is not in his best physical shape, and in fact, his chances of returning to his peak are almost nonexistent.
After a ligament injury that sidelined Neymar for almost the entire year of 2025, the striker underwent further surgery at the end of the year to improve his fitness. He returned with renewed confidence, but also with many unanswered questions.
Santos understands Neymar's situation. The club accepts the reality that he is no longer the version who once dominated world football. However, they still want to take a gamble, seeing this as the final journey of an icon who never reached the pinnacle of the World Cup.
The Brazilian team has a very clear stance. Carlo Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) are no exception. Neymar will only be called up if he is "100% ready". There is no middle ground, even for a player who was the center of attention for an entire generation.
In early 2026, Neymar showed positive signs. He changed his lifestyle, focused on training, and followed a strict diet. Everything was tailored specifically for him, with coordination between him and Santos. The CBF (Central Football Federation) monitored him closely and still held out hope.
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Neymar is not in his best physical condition, and in fact, his chances of returning to his peak are almost nonexistent. |
But the negative turning point came in the match against Mirassol. Neymar had been informed beforehand that Ancelotti and technical director Rodrigo Caetano would be watching him play. This was a crucial opportunity to prove himself.
However, Neymar did not play. He was not registered to play, reportedly due to a joint decision with Santos.
This incident displeased the CBF (Central Football Federation). Neymar was immediately excluded from the most recent call-up. Ancelotti made it clear: “If he is 100% fit, he will be called up. But not yet. We need players who are in top form.”
In this context, controversy flared up again. Some legends like Ronaldo and Zico spoke out in support of Neymar, calling for him to be given a chance. However, not everyone agreed. Many argued that the national team should prioritize players who are currently in better form.
The door isn't completely closed yet. Neymar still has time to change. But that time is running out quickly. And if he can't prove his worth in the coming weeks, the "hell" he's facing could end with a sad conclusion: the World Cup will be over without Neymar.
Source: https://znews.vn/dia-nguc-cua-neymar-post1640363.html
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