Neymar Breaks His Silence; Makes His Case To Ancelotti Amid 'Nonsense' Critiques

Last Updated:May 18, 2026, 12:06 IST

Neymar insisted he feels “physically great” ahead of Brazil’s World Cup squad reveal after a chaotic Santos outing and months of criticism over injuries.

Neymar knows the noise around him has never really gone quiet.

Questions about injuries, fitness, commitment and whether he still deserves to wear the famous yellow shirt of the Selecao have followed the superstar relentlessly over the past year.

But just hours before Brazil announce their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Neymar finally responded.

“Physically, I feel great. I’ve been improving with every game," Neymar said after Santos FC’s 3-0 defeat to Coritiba Foot Ball Club on Sunday.

“I’ve done my absolute best. It wasn’t easy. I’ll admit it wasn’t easy."

The 34-year-old forward has endured another frustrating spell dominated by injuries and public scrutiny, with many questioning whether he still belongs in Brazil’s plans under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Neymar, however, insisted much of the criticism crossed the line.

“It’s been years of hard work, and also a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing," he said.

“I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out."

The timing of Neymar’s comments added even more intrigue because his latest appearance for Santos descended into confusion late in the match.

A Chaotic Final Audition

In what many viewed as a final audition for Brazil selection, Neymar was mistakenly substituted during the defeat, triggering chaotic scenes on the touchline as the Brazilian star appeared visibly frustrated while leaving the pitch.

Still, when asked directly whether he deserves a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad, Neymar refused to make demands.

“I can’t answer that question myself because only Ancelotti can decide if I deserve to be there or not," he admitted to the media.

“What I can say is that I worked very hard for this moment."

The Brazilian icon also acknowledged the possibility of being left out.

“If my name is there, I’ll give everything for my country like always," Neymar said.

“And if I’m not called up, then I’ll still be one more Brazilian fan supporting the team, suffering, celebrating and dreaming with them from home."

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