World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi Backs Neymar For Brazil World Cup Squad And Calls Former Team-Mate ‘One Of The Best’
Lionel Messi Backs Neymar For Brazil World Cup Squad And Calls Former Team-Mate ‘One Of The Best’
Lionel Messi has delivered an emotional and passionate defence of Neymar, insisting the Brazilian superstar “deserves” to be part of Brazil’s World Cup squad despite ongoing injury concerns.
The Inter Miami captain, who formed one of football’s most iconic partnerships alongside Neymar at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, described his close friend as “very special” and declared that the World Cup simply feels incomplete without him.
And for football fans around the globe, it’s hard not to agree.
Messi Wants Neymar At The World Cup
Speaking during an appearance on the Lo del Pollo show, Messi made it clear that Neymar should still be considered one of the world’s elite players regardless of his recent fitness struggles.
“We want the best players to be there,” Messi said.
“And Neymar, no matter his form, will always be one of them.”
Those words carry huge weight coming from a player widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Messi admitted his friendship with Neymar makes it difficult for him to remain objective, but he believes the Brazilian deserves another chance to shine on football’s biggest stage.
“It would be wonderful to see him at the World Cup because of what he means to Brazil and to football,” Messi added.
“I’d love for him to be at the World Cup, for good things to happen to him because he deserves it.”
Neymar Fighting To Return
Neymar’s road back to the Brazil national team has not been easy.
The Santos forward has endured a frustrating spell filled with injuries and multiple knee procedures, preventing him from featuring for Brazil since late 2023.
Yet despite those setbacks, belief in Neymar’s quality remains strong — especially from someone who knows him better than most.
Messi’s comments arrive at a crucial moment as Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti prepares to evaluate options ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
If Neymar can rediscover his fitness and rhythm, his inclusion could become one of the tournament’s biggest stories.
Messi Praises Neymar’s Personality
Beyond football ability, Messi also praised Neymar’s authenticity and personality — qualities he believes make the Brazilian unique in modern football.
“He has a very special charisma,” Messi explained.
“He doesn’t put on an act. He lives his life as it is, according to what he feels without worrying about the repercussions.”
That honesty and freedom have always defined Neymar’s career, both on and off the pitch.
Whether dazzling defenders with outrageous skill moves or expressing himself away from football, Neymar has always remained unapologetically himself — something Messi clearly admires deeply.
Argentina Not Taking Anything For Granted
Messi also reflected on Argentina’s chances heading into another major international tournament, warning that the reigning world champions cannot assume they are favourites.
The Argentine legend highlighted France, Spain, and Brazil as major contenders for global glory.
“France is looking very strong once again,” Messi admitted.
“I also think Spain is a contender, as is Brazil.”
Even with Brazil struggling for consistency in recent years, Messi believes the nation’s talent pool and football tradition always make them dangerous opponents.
And if Neymar returns to full fitness, Brazil’s chances could instantly rise.
Football Needs Its Biggest Stars
For many fans, Messi’s comments perfectly capture what makes the World Cup so special.
The tournament is about elite football — but it’s also about iconic personalities, unforgettable moments, and legendary players creating history together on the grandest stage.
And Neymar remains one of football’s biggest global attractions.
Whether you support Brazil or not, seeing Neymar back on the World Cup stage would undoubtedly add excitement, emotion, and magic to the competition.
Because players like Neymar don’t come around often.
For more exclusive football stories, World Cup updates, player interviews, and global sports business news, stay connected to Sports Market International — where football’s biggest conversations never stop.
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Category: Football
Tags: Lionel Messi, Neymar, Brazil, Argentina, FIFA World Cup 2026, Inter Miami, Santos, Barcelona, PSG, Football News
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