Neymar Remains Hopeful for FIFA World Cup 2026 Selection Despite Recent Exclusion

Brazilian football star Neymar is determined to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, despite being excluded from upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. In a recent live broadcast, he expressed his disappointment but emphasized his commitment to training hard and maintaining focus. Coach Carlo Ancelotti noted that Neymar's lack of full fitness is the reason for his exclusion, but he remains hopeful that Neymar can regain his form in time for the final squad announcement. Discover more about Neymar's journey and aspirations as he aims to fulfill his World Cup dream.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 02:19 IST

Neymar's Aspirations for World Cup 2026

New Delhi, March 17: Brazilian football sensation Neymar has expressed his desire to secure a spot in Brazil's squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, despite being left out of the national team for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, as reported by ESPN.

The matches against France on March 26 in Boston and Croatia on March 31 in Orlando will serve as the final opportunities for Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti to assess players before announcing the definitive World Cup roster on May 18.

During a live stream of a Kings League Brazil event, Neymar shared his feelings regarding his omission from the friendlies, stating that while he is disappointed, he remains committed and motivated. He emphasized the importance of hard work and believes he still has a chance to be included in the final World Cup lineup, asserting that "the dream continues."

"I need to address this because I can't let it go unnoticed. Naturally, I'm upset and saddened by the selection. However, my focus remains unchanged—day in and day out, through every training session and match. We will reach our goal. There’s one last squad announcement ahead, and the dream continues. We are in this together," Neymar remarked, as quoted by ESPN.

As Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar has not played for the national team since suffering a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee in October 2023.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti explained Neymar's absence from the squad, citing his lack of full fitness. He noted that if Neymar can regain his physical condition and perform well, he still has a shot at making the World Cup team.

"Neymar is not at 100 percent, which is why he is not included in the list. If he can reach full fitness, he has a chance. Neymar must continue to work hard, play well, and maintain his physical condition," Ancelotti stated.