Lionel Messi has publicly supported his close friend Neymar for a place in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The two superstars shared successful spells together at FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, where they built a strong friendship both on and off the field. Messi believes Neymar still has the quality to perform at the highest level despite the Brazilian’s recent injury struggles.
Neymar's Career and Injury Setbacks
Neymar was once seen as the natural successor to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in world football. However, repeated injuries interrupted his progress during key stages of his career. The Brazilian forward is now playing for his childhood club Santos FC and has spent long periods away from the national team. His last appearance for Brazil came in October 2023, and questions remain over whether he can regain full fitness before the next World Cup.
Messi's Hopes for Neymar
Lionel Messi admitted to Pollo Alvarez that it is difficult for him to speak objectively because of his friendship with Neymar, but he stressed that he would love to see the Brazilian at the World Cup. The Argentine captain explained that football’s biggest tournament deserves to feature the world’s best players, and he still considers Neymar one of them whenever he is fit and available. Messi also added that he hopes positive things happen for Neymar because of the challenges he has faced in recent years.
Fitness Concerns Ahead of 2026
Neymar’s fitness remains a major concern ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 34-year-old has played only eight matches for Santos this year because of recurring knee problems. He underwent minor surgery in December and later required another procedure in March. These setbacks have raised doubts about whether he can return to peak condition in time for Brazil’s campaign.
Neymar's Record and Support from Legends
Despite the injuries, Neymar’s record for Brazil remains exceptional. He is the nation’s highest goalscorer with 79 goals and is also the second-most capped player in the country’s history with 128 appearances. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to closely monitor Neymar’s condition before making his final World Cup decisions.
Brazil legend Cafu has also thrown his support behind Neymar. Cafu praised Neymar’s technical ability and claimed the forward possessed even greater natural skill than both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The former World Cup-winning captain said Neymar can still change matches on his own if he is physically and mentally prepared. However, Cafu admitted the final decision will depend on Ancelotti and Neymar’s overall fitness levels before the tournament begins.
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