Neymar request draws ‘football isn’t exact science’ response from Brazil coach amid pressure from legends

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has directly addressed the demands of legendary Romario and Ronaldo Nazario to include Neymar in the FIFA World Cup 2026 squad. A CNN report has claimed that Neymar's chances of playing in the World Cup for Brazil are "all but over," leading to Romario and Ronaldo making a case for the star footballer.

Neymar doesn't feature in the Brazilian squad for friendlies against France and Croatia, indicating that his chances of playing in the World Cup 2026 are almost zero.

Ancelotti speaks on Neymar selection debate

“A star player has to play," 1994 World Cup winner Romario said. "The national team is the place for the best and most talented. Preparation for the World Cup lasts a month — sufficient time for an athlete to recover physically and technically, regain match rhythm, and build chemistry with the group. It is better to have a star player like Neymar, even when he is not at 100%, than to call up any other player.”

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Requesting Ancelotti, Ronaldo said, “If Neymar is physically fit, I would take him to the World Cup. I am going to hope that Neymar is physically well. If he is, I am certain that Ancelotti will take him. He can help.”

Reacting to the statements from former World Cup winners, ex-Real Madrid coach Ancelotti said that he respects all the opinions, but his role is to make the best decisions for the team.

“I observe everything, I listen to everything. But my role is to make decisions. It’s normal that everyone can have an opinion, because football isn’t a university… football isn’t an exact science. Everyone has their opinion, and I have to respect everyone’s opinion,” Ancelotti was quoted as saying by ESPN.

Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023. He has also missed a large amout of club football action during this period due to multiple injuries including knee issues.