Neymar Given Six-Month Race to Prove Fitness for 2026 World Cup

Carlo Ancelotti didn’t raise his voice. He said just one short line at Monday’s press briefing, and it was enough to jolt the room. Neymar, he said, has six months to show he’s fit for the World Cup 2026. Few saw this coming.

The forward hasn’t featured for Brazil since October 2023. That night ended with torn knee ligaments, a stretcher, and a hush that fell over the stadium. You could still sense that memory hanging over the discussion. Neymar battled through more setbacks after returning to Santos. His fans did expect him to get another serious look.

Ancelotti’s Firm Message

Brazilian coach Ancelotti has kept his message firm. He insisted the 33-year-old has fully recovered and remains part of the plan. “He just needs to play,” the coach said. Simple words, yet they carried weight. 

Neymar now enters a stretch where every week matters. Every touch, every sprint, every little scrap of match rhythm. Ancelotti reminded everyone that the Brazilian league pauses on December 7, giving the forward a short break before the next push. “Then he can show his quality and physical condition,” the coach added. There was a clear hint of caution behind that optimism.

The player himself hasn’t spoken yet, but anyone who has watched him over the years knows he wears emotions on his face. You could picture that mix of pride and pressure returning. The crowd will keep a close eye. Gasps will follow every heavy challenge. Cheers will ring out for every sharp turn. No doubt about it.

And here’s the real curiosity. What happens if Neymar starts finding form? If he strings a few solid games together? If he looks even close to his old spark? Brazil’s depth chart, which looked settled last month, might feel wide open again.

All that stands between him and another World Cup is half a year. A tight window with a real test.