French superstar Kylian Mbappé has shared his thoughts on the growing debate surrounding Neymar and his place in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking during a recent interview, Mbappe expressed strong belief in Neymar’s importance to international football, stating that a World Cup without the Brazilian forward would be hard to imagine. His comments come amid ongoing discussions about whether Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti will include Neymar in the upcoming tournament squad.
While backing Neymar’s quality and influence, Mbappe also showed respect for Ancelotti’s authority in making selection decisions. He acknowledged that the final call rests with the coach, even as fans and former players continue to debate Neymar’s inclusion.
Brazil’s national team is currently evolving with rising talents such as Vinícius Júnior playing a key role. Mbappe highlighted that both Neymar and Vinicius can coexist in the squad, stressing that the experienced forward still has the ability to make a decisive impact on big occasions.
Concerns over Neymar’s fitness have been a major talking point, with reports suggesting this as a key factor behind doubts about his selection. Despite this, Mbappe remains confident that Neymar can regain form and be ready in time for the tournament.
Neymar’s legacy with Brazil remains significant. Since making his debut as a teenager, he has become one of the nation’s most influential players, holding the record as Brazil’s all time leading goalscorer. His achievements include leading Brazil to Olympic gold and playing a crucial role in multiple international tournaments.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, the discussion around Neymar’s role in the squad is expected to intensify, with fans eagerly waiting for final decisions from the coaching staff.