Neymar's Brazil Return: Carlo Ancelotti Promises Final Decision Soon

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-09-13 11:40:25 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-21 06:15:51

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Brazil and Paris Saint-Germain legend Neymar's return to the national side depends solely on his current fitness levels, according to his former club coach Carlo Ancelotti.

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Neymar's Return to Brazil Depends on Fitness, Ancelotti Says

The forward's club career has been plagued by injuries over the past few years, limiting him to just 34 combined league appearances for PSG in 2019-20 and 2020-21.

And with Neymar now back at his first club Santos, Ancelotti, who managed the forward at PSG during the 2015-16 season, has said that Neymar's appointment as the new Brazil captain by coach Tite depends on him getting back to full fitness.

"I think Tite and the whole of Brazilian football are hoping for Neymar to come back 100%, not only 80% or 90%. That's what I hope for him, and if that's the case, he can certainly help any team," Ancelotti told DAZN.

"When I saw him, he seemed to be happy, satisfied, and motivated to give his best at Santos, so I wish him good luck, and it will be a pleasure to see him back on the pitch soon."

The 58-year-old Italian tactician spoke highly of the 32-year-old's abilities, emphasizing his world-class talent, but echoed the widespread expectation that Neymar's move to Santos will be just a loan, rather than a permanent transfer.

"I hope he can stay at Santos, I think that would be great for him and for Brazilian football," Ancelotti said. "He's a player who has always been a leader. He has a lot of quality, is technically gifted, and has an eye for goal.

"So, he can certainly help any team, and I hope that he can get back to that level. And if he does, it will be great for Brazil and for any club."

Neymar was unavailable for Santos' 1-0 defeat to Fluminense over the weekend due to a minor thigh injury, but he is expected to return to training soon.

When fully fit, and with the likes of Roberto Firmino, Gabriel Jesus, and Lucas Paqueta all thriving in Europe, it remains to be seen who will make Tite's starting XI for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

But Ancelotti's comments make it clear that Neymar will have to prove he's still up to the high standards required to suit up for Brazil.

Go!