Bhubaneswar : As Brazil prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, football legend Ronaldo Nazario has highlighted Neymar as central to the team’s hopes for success. Despite a challenging recovery from a serious knee injury sustained in 2023, Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals and is keen to play in his fourth World Cup.
Ronaldo acknowledged Neymar’s natural adaptation process after a long injury layoff but emphasized the player’s strong desire and potential to shine in the tournament. “Brazil can achieve anything with the players they have,” said Ronaldo, adding that Neymar must be fully fit, which is also the expectation of Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Under Ancelotti’s guidance, Brazil is blending experienced leaders with young talent, aiming to build a resilient squad. Although Brazil’s qualification was their worst in history, finishing fifth in South America, the team remains determined to end their 24-year wait since last lifting the World Cup in 2002.
Neymar recently returned to his boyhood club Santos, where the season has been tough, but Ronaldo defends him against criticism, calling it exaggerated given his recovery. With Neymar’s fitness improving and his leadership on and off the pitch, Brazil’s path to the trophy looks promising.
Ronaldo’s message to Neymar is clear: dedication, sacrifice, and full commitment in training and rest are crucial for Brazil’s 2026 journey. If all goes well, Neymar could be the spark that reignites Brazil’s World Cup dreams.
Key Points:
Neymar aiming for 4th World Cup at 33 years old
Brazil’s worst qualifying finish but still qualified
Coach Ancelotti combines youth and experience
Neymar’s fitness and form crucial for Brazil’s success
Brazil’s last World Cup win: 2002
Ronaldo expects Neymar to be a pivotal force, urging fans to trust the process as Brazil prepares for one of football’s biggest stages .
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