Carlo Ancelotti speaking about Neymar and Vinicius Junior ahead of Brazil’s World Cup selection.
Carlo Ancelotti has made one thing very clear: the 2026 World Cup will not be a tournament of reputations. Brazil’s head coach has warned Neymar and Vinicius Junior that they must be at “100 per cent” if they hope to make the final squad travelling to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
It’s a firm message delivered at a sensitive time, especially for Neymar, who is still battling persistent injuries and an inconsistent spell since returning to Santos. For Vinicius, the warning comes as he struggles to find his full form at Real Madrid this season.
After returning to Santos in early 2025 with hopes of reviving both his career and the club’s fortunes, Neymar has found himself in a frustrating cycle of recovery and setbacks. His long ACL layoff after leaving PSG, followed by fitness troubles at Al-Hilal, has meant very little sustained playing time.
His second spell at Santos was expected to be his emotional comeback story, but instead, it has been filled with knee discomfort, match-to-match uncertainty, and only flashes of his old brilliance. Seven goals in 25 games tell the story of a player trying, but physically unable, to build the rhythm he once had so effortlessly.
Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda confirmed that Neymar was again sidelined due to knee discomfort during their recent draw with Internacional. Even so, the forward fought through pain in their 3–0 win against Sport, helping the club climb out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
When asked directly about Neymar’s situation, Ancelotti didn’t offer any emotional cushioning. His message was simple: Brazil has too much talent to carry anyone operating below full fitness.
“He has to be 100%,” Ancelotti told Esporte Record. “It’s not just Neymar — it could be Vinícius. If Vinícius is at 90%, I’ll call another player who is at 100%. This team has a very high level of competition, especially up front.”
He praised Neymar’s brilliance but pointed to the reality of his career: injuries have repeatedly halted his progress at the worst possible moments.
Despite the setbacks, Neymar remains defiant. After Santos’ victory over Sport, he admitted that the injuries have been emotionally exhausting, but insisted he won’t give up.
“I’m feeling better and better,” he said. “This injury is sad and annoying, but it won’t stop me. My focus now is helping Santos stay where it belongs — in the top flight. After that, we’ll see what’s next.”
For Ancelotti, the message is clear: only the best, fully fit players will represent Brazil on the biggest stage. For Neymar and Vinicius, the challenge is equally clear — recover fully, perform consistently, and prove they belong in a squad full of hungry, in-form challengers.
The race to 2026 has officially begun.
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