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Ancelotti Keeps Door Open for Neymar, Sets Two-Month Fitness Test for World Cup

His case rests on clear proof of full match fitness following recent knee procedures.

Overview

  • Ancelotti, in interviews published Monday, said Neymar has two months to show he is 100% fit and stressed he will only pick players who are physically ready.
  • Neymar returned to Santos and played the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over Atletico Mineiro, with coach Cuca calling his progress steady but warning that a full match remains risky.
  • The Brazil Football Confederation is evaluating Neymar alongside the coaching staff, and his selection hinges on demonstrated durability for the tournament’s quick turnarounds.
  • Support from the stands has been strong, with Brazil fans chanting his name during March’s 2-1 warm-up loss to France.
  • Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023 and has been left out of every Ancelotti squad since June 2025, though he remains the nation’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals.