'Super substitute' Neymar

Neymar is not yet in top physical condition to be a starter at the 2026 World Cup and is likely to be used by coach Carlo Ancelotti as a potential attacking option from the bench.

Neymar faces a new role in Brazil, with his chances of starting at the 2026 World Cup still uncertain.

Neymar's return is bringing both expectations and challenges to the Brazilian national team in terms of personnel management. The 34-year-old star is not yet in optimal physical condition and it is uncertain whether he will be able to start in the upcoming matches.

In this context, coach Carlo Ancelotti gradually shaped a new framework, where young players like Rayan continued to be given opportunities. The Bournemouth winger was seen as a replacement for Raphinha and has somewhat proven his worth recently.

Neymar, however, still plays a crucial role in the dressing room. He is one of Brazil's spiritual leaders, but his position on the field is becoming a major question mark as the coaching staff prioritizes stability and high intensity play.

According to assessments from within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Neymar may not fully meet the physical demands of the intense knockout stage against Japan . This has led to more consideration of using him as a "tactical weapon" from the bench.

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Notably, even coach Ancelotti himself has admitted that Neymar's ability to play is still good, but maintaining intensity throughout 90 minutes is no longer as simple as it used to be.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is considering using Neymar as a "tactical weapon" from the bench.

In the 3-0 victory against Scotland on June 25th, Neymar only played for about 15 minutes but still made an impact with his ball control and ability to set up attacks from the back. Professional data shows that he was directly involved in many build-up play and maintained a high pass accuracy rate.

Some tactical analyses suggest that Neymar's most suitable role right now is that of a "false nine," or a free-roaming player in the final 30 minutes of a match, where he can make the most of his technique and ball control in tight spaces.

Legendary Romario also offered a cautious perspective, suggesting that Brazil needs to manage Neymar's physical condition well. He emphasized that the player should be used flexibly, rather than forcing him to play the full 90 minutes in every match.

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Brazil still sees Neymar as a game-changer, but the current approach suggests his role is different from previous World Cups, when he was the absolute centerpiece of the team.

At the moment, Ancelotti's challenge is not only to help Neymar regain his form, but also to find the right time and space for him to perform at his best within the "Selecao"'s new system.

Source: https://znews.vn/sieu-du-bi-neymar-post1663972.html