Neymar key to Brazil’s World Cup hopes – Ronaldo Nazario

Legendary Ronaldo Nazario believes Neymar Jr. is going to hold the key for Brazil in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Neymar hasn’t played for Seleção Canarinho since October 2023 because of injury woes. 

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has said that Neymar needs to be in good physical condition to be considered for the national selection.

“Brazil can achieve anything with the players they have available,” Ronaldo said.

“Neymar can be, and I believe he will be, an important player in the World Cup. Everyone wants Neymar at 100%. That’s what Ancelotti wants, and what he wants too. In his mind, I see a strong desire to be at the World Cup and help the Brazilian team.”

Neymar is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals and joined boyhood club Santos after ending his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.

Ronaldo is hopeful that the 33-year-old striker is 100% fit and ready to go.

“I hope he’s 100%,” Ronaldo said of Neymar. “He’s coming off a serious injury, and what he’s going through is very natural: readaptation, game rhythm. The criticism is exaggerated, but expectations for him are always high, and that’s why they exist. But Neymar knows what needs to be done to be 100% at the World Cup.”

The former striker said Brazil’s future is in secure hands with head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

“Ancelotti is a wonderful person, a team player, who always brings harmony and motivation,” he said of the former Real Madrid and AC Milan coach.

“Tactically, he’s brilliant, a winner in football. Ancelotti and the national team have everything they need to succeed.”

Brazil has qualified for the World Cup after finishing fifth in the South American qualifier standings with 28 points.