Carlo Ancelotti Names Neymar as Key to Brazil's Success at 2026 World Cup

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-06-27 11:56:09 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-27 11:02:50

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Brazil's new coach Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized Neymar's crucial role in the team and urged the star player to optimally prepare for the 2026 World Cup, where Brazil will seek to add to their five championships. The quest for a sixth star falls squarely on the shoulders of Neymar, according to Ancelotti, and it is up to the veteran to prepare well and lead his teammates to glory.

Ancelotti, a veteran manager who has coached some of Europe's top clubs, believes Neymar will play a key role in determining Brazil's prospects at the 2026 World Cup. The 59-year-old coach emphasized the importance of the 28-year-old's role, not only in providing moments of magic on the pitch but also in leadership and attitude.

Ancelotti, who replaced Tite after Brazil's disappointing World Cup quarter-final exit in November, watched on as Neymar became the world's most expensive player in 2017 when he joined Paris Saint-Germain for 222 million euros. He returned to Barcelona in August, but the Brazilian is expected to play a pivotal role in helping the country defend its continental title and possibly secure another World Cup.

The Brazilian's dedication and leadership were questioned after a disappointing exit in the group stages of the Champions League with Barcelona this season, but Ancelotti believes Neymar will learn from the experience and return stronger. The former Real Madrid coach is now looking to make Neymar the centerpiece of his new project as he looks to chase more major titles.

"I think Neymar should be prepared to be at his best physical and mental level to have a great World Cup," Ancelotti said. "It's not just about him scoring goals he has to prepare himself to be the leader of the team."

It remains to be seen if Ancelotti's faith in Neymar will pay off at the 2026 World Cup, but making the superstar the focal point of Brazil's squad could be a risky move considering the team's lack of cohesion without him. The next two years leading up to the World Cup will be crucial for Neymar, and Ancelotti's tenure as Brazil's coach will largely depend on if the former Barcelona star can deliver on the biggest stage.

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