Neymar’s Future with Brazil in Doubt Amid Fitness Concerns and Off-Field Distractions
The future of Neymar with the Brazilian national team remains uncertain as the 34-year-old forward battles to regain full fitness following a serious knee injury and faces scrutiny over his off-field activities. Despite his undeniable talent, questions are mounting about his commitment and ability to contribute to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Recent Absence from National Team and Club Duty
Neymar was recently omitted from Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against France and Croatia. This decision has sparked debate, with some, like Brazil legend Romario, vehemently arguing for his inclusion despite his current physical condition. Romario believes that Neymar’s talent outweighs any concerns about his fitness, stating that a star player should always be prioritized, even if not at 100% (Goal.com).
His absence extends to club level as well. Coach Cuca of Santos confirmed Neymar would miss the match against Cruzeiro on March 23rd, citing workload management and a “high risk” of injury after playing two matches in seven days (World Soccer Talk).
Concerns Over Focus and Professionalism
Adding to the controversy, Brazilian media reported that Neymar participated in a nearly 24-hour high-stakes online poker session while sidelined due to fitness issues. This timing has raised questions about his priorities and dedication to regaining match fitness (World Soccer Talk).
Legend Zico has emphasized that Neymar needs to consistently perform well before being considered for a return to the national team, adding urgency to the scrutiny surrounding his off-field activities (World Soccer Talk).
Road to Recovery and World Cup Prospects
Neymar returned to Santos in December 2025 after undergoing knee surgery in October 2023. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, scoring three goals in three league appearances, consistency and injury prevention remain key concerns (World Soccer Talk).
Reports suggest that Carlo Ancelotti is already considering Neymar “practically ruled out” of the 2026 World Cup squad due to his ongoing fitness struggles (MSN).
Neymar’s Response and Future Outlook
On Wednesday, Neymar addressed his situation and long-term outlook with the national team in a personal video posted on his YouTube channel (Athlon Sports). The details of this announcement have not been widely reported, but it signals his awareness of the growing concerns surrounding his position.
Despite the challenges, Neymar remains a highly regarded player. But, his image and professionalism will be crucial factors in determining his potential return to the Brazilian national team as the World Cup approaches. Every move he makes, both on and off the pitch, will be closely scrutinized.