Neymar's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup hangs in the balance, with his selection far from guaranteed. The Brazilian superstar, currently playing for Santos, faces a race against time to prove his fitness and form to Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Neymar, who extended his contract with Santos until the end of 2026, is determined to represent Brazil in what could be his final World Cup. The 33-year-old has been sidelined since October 2023 after suffering a torn ACL against Uruguay and later undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in late December to repair a meniscus injury. This injury has kept him out of action for over two years, during which Brazil has seen four different head coaches.

Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar's inclusion in the squad will depend on his performance and fitness. "If Neymar deserves to be there, if he's doing well, if he's better than someone else, he will play in the World Cup," Ancelotti stated. He emphasized that Neymar needs to be at "100 percent" to be considered. Ancelotti has stressed that form, fitness, and intensity will determine the final decisions.

Competition for places in the squad is fierce. Ancelotti is reportedly building his team around players like Vinicius Junior and Raphinha, who are considered certainties if fit. Other players like Matheus Cunha, Joao Pedro and potentially Endrick are also vying for a spot in the attacking lineup. This means that Neymar, for the first time in his international career, is not the automatic choice.

Despite his legendary status, Neymar is reportedly willing to accept a reduced role and is open to becoming a substitute for the first time in his international career. Before his surgery, he declared his commitment to bringing a sixth World Cup title to Brazil, promising to score if they reached the final.

Neymar's absence from the national team extends to nearly two years, with Ancelotti citing a leg muscle injury as the reason for his latest omission from the World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia. However, Ancelotti has previously expressed his commitment to getting Neymar match-ready for the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar's career has been marked by both brilliance and setbacks. He is Brazil's all-time leading male goalscorer and has achieved significant success with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, injuries have often hampered his progress, limiting his game time and preventing him from consistently performing at his peak.

Neymar himself has acknowledged that the 2026 World Cup could be his last. He stated that he would be 34 years old and at the right age to compete. He has also expressed his desire to win the tournament.

As the World Cup approaches, Neymar faces a critical period to prove his fitness and convince Ancelotti that he deserves a place in the squad. His selection will depend on his ability to overcome his injury struggles, regain his form, and demonstrate the intensity and physical condition required for modern international football.