Neymar made Brazil’s World Cup squad on Monday, a selection many local analysts and former footballers deemed unlikely only days ago. The striker will appear at his fourth World Cup.
The 34-year-old Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top goal-scorer with 79 but has struggled to return to top fitness since he tore his left ACL in October 2023. He’s played eight matches for Santos this year with four goals and two assists.
“He has improved his fitness; he will be an important player in this World Cup,” Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro.
The coach added he preferred experienced players for some spots in his squad, including Neymar.
“He can still improve his fitness until the first match of the World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “He has experience in this kind of competition, the love of our group, he can create a better environment in
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
