Neymar Yet to Feature for Brazil Under Ancelotti
Neymar has not played for Brazil since Carlo Ancelotti became coach, missing the October friendlies against South Korea and Japan. The 33-year-old, recovering from a right thigh muscle tear, has managed only 21 appearances and six goals for Santos in 2025.
Neymar has not played for Brazil since Carlo Ancelotti became coach, missing the October friendlies against South Korea and Japan. The 33-year-old, recovering from a right thigh muscle tear, has managed only 21 appearances and six goals for Santos in 2025. He is expected to return in November, with Brazil counting on him for the 2026 World Cup if fully fit.
When the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, Brazil faces a notable challenge with Neymar still sidelined. The Santos forward has yet to feature for the national team under Carlo Ancelotti, even as Brazil prepares for warm-up matches against South Korea on October 10 in Seoul and Japan on October 14 in Tokyo. Neymar, once the cornerstone of Brazil’s attack, last played for the Selecao in October 2023, suffering an ACL tear against Uruguay during World Cup qualifiers.
Despite returning to Santos earlier in 2025, Neymar’s comeback has been hindered by recurring injuries, limiting him to just 21 appearances and six goals this year. Most recently, a tear in his right thigh muscle during September training has ruled him out for weeks, with Santos president Marcelo Teixeira confirming he will only return in the final rounds of the Brazilian championship, likely in November.
Santos is struggling without their star, sitting just five points above the relegation zone following a 1-1 draw with Gremio. The club hopes Neymar can return for the decisive matches on December 6 and 7, which may determine their survival in Brazil’s top flight. Ancelotti has stressed that Neymar’s fitness will be the key for his World Cup participation, emphasizing readiness over immediate appearances.
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