Messi endorses Neymar's World Cup inclusion despite fitness concerns
Lionel Messi has backed Neymar's inclusion in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that the best players should be present at the tournament.
Neymar has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023 and has faced consistency challenges since returning to Santos. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has stated that the striker will be considered if he is fully fit, noting that Neymar has two months to prove his readiness.
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Messi described Neymar as a vital figure, stating it would be wonderful to see him at the tournament because of what he means to Brazil and football. Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 79 goals for his country throughout his international career.
Messi listed Brazil as a major contender for the 2026 title, alongside other top nations such as Spain and France. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, with the tournament scheduled to begin on June 11. Messi is expected to make his final appearance at the tournament after previously captaining Argentina to the world title in Qatar in 2022.
