Neymar's Santos Coach Drops World Cup Squad Hint

Just four days before Brazil's official 2026 World Cup squad announcement, the coach of Neymar's club team, Santos, has made surprising statements about the star's place in the lineup. The 26-player roster, to be unveiled by Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti next Monday, is the subject of intense anticipation across Brazilian football circles.

Neymar, a legend nearing the twilight of his career, has been at the center of widespread debate amid reports he might miss the global tournament due to recurring injuries. However, statistics show the Santos captain has only missed six matches since February 16, one of which was due to suspension. He has started and led the team in 13 games, improving his stats with six goals and four assists.

While this performance hasn't been enough to push Santos into contention for the top of the Brazilian league—the team sits in 15th place—it offers reassurance regarding the player's individual level. Thanks to his consistent appearances and standout performances, dropping Neymar from the Brazil squad seems a difficult proposition, according to local news reports.

Coach's Assessment and Ancelotti's Criteria

Kuka, Neymar's coach at Santos, revealed the player's evolution, stating: "With every match, Neymar shows his value and level. He is no longer the Neymar of yesterday, who would receive the ball and charge towards the goal. Today, he poses a severe challenge for opponents." He added: "He can offer a lot: breaking from deep, dribbling past opponents with his intelligence, holding the ball, organizing play, and scoring. He can play on the wing, as a playmaker, or as a false nine."

"Choosing Neymar for Brazil's World Cup squad is entirely up to him. What the player shows on the pitch—that is the primary criterion. This applies not just to Neymar but to most players."

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti made those remarks to *The Guardian*. He has already included the former Paris Saint-Germain star's name on an initial 55-player list, but must trim it to 26 by Monday, May 18, for the official final squad announcement. Brazil will compete in Group 3 of the 2026 World Cup alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti.