Overview

• The 33-year-old has not played for Brazil since tearing his ACL and meniscus in October 2023 and his form at Santos has been inconsistent.
• He was omitted from the June and September squads, which Carlo Ancelotti attributed to a minor leg issue, while Neymar said the decision was technical.
• Ancelotti said he has spoken with Neymar and told him there is time to reach peak condition to be considered for the tournament.
• If selected, Ancelotti plans to use Neymar as an attacking midfielder or striker rather than on the wing.
• Brazil are already qualified for 2026 and will face South Korea in a friendly in Seoul on Oct. 10 as evaluations continue, and Ancelotti indicated he is open to staying beyond the World Cup.