Ancelotti Sets Strict Conditions for Neymar’s 2026 World Cup Return

The Brazil national team set-up is already drawing global attention ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and debate around Neymar Jr’s potential inclusion has intensified following fresh comments from head coach Carlo Ancelotti. PulseNets learnt that the veteran manager has now outlined clear conditions the legendary forward must meet before earning a spot in his final squad.

The expanded World Cup—scheduled to begin in June across the United States, Canada and Mexico—completed its official draw at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., an event supervised by U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Brazil were placed in Group C, where they will face Morocco, Haiti and Scotland.

Neymar, formerly of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al Hilal, has rediscovered strong form since returning to Santos. Despite recurring injury concerns, the 32-year-old has delivered 11 goals in 26 matches, a resurgence that has reignited public curiosity about whether he will be on the plane to North America.

PulseNets obtained indications that both supporters and journalists have been pressing Ancelotti—an iconic former Real Madrid manager—on whether the Santos talisman fits into his broader World Cup plans.

Responding to those enquiries after the draw ceremony on Friday night, Ancelotti set the record straight, stressing that squad selection would be based strictly on merit and physical readiness.

“I understand everyone’s interest in Neymar, but let me be clear,” he said.

“We are in December and the World Cup is in June. When I announce the squad in May, if Neymar deserves it—if he’s well, if he’s better than or equal to others—then he will go to the World Cup, full stop.”

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Should he make the final list, the 2026 tournament would mark Neymar’s fourth World Cup appearance, having previously featured in 2014, 2018 and 2022.