Neymar Jr. (34, Santos) has made his final gamble for the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup in North and Central America.
According to reports on the 1st (Korean time) from local Brazilian media and Britain's Daily Mail, Neymar agreed to extend his contract with his club Santos FC by one year, staying until December 2026. It is interpreted as a choice to win the favor of coach Carlo Ancelotti, who will decide the World Cup final roster.
Born in 1992, Neymar has shown a clear rebound since returning from a hamstring injury last year. He has scored five goals in his last seven matches, and he made his presence felt wearing the captain's armband with a hat trick against Juventude. Although his future was uncertain ahead of his contract expiration, it appears he judged staying at Santos to be the most realistic route back to the national team. He previously said, "If I am selected, I will score in the World Cup final and lift the trophy."
Coach Ancelotti has not completely closed the door on Neymar. However, Neymar has not worn the Brazil national team jersey since suffering a severe knee injury in September 2023. After spells at FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, he moved to Al Hilal in 2023 and suffered frequent injuries, and even after returning to Santos the gap in play was long. Since that transfer, he has missed 89 matches.
Nevertheless, there were achievements. Last season in Brazil's Serie A he recorded 11 goals and 4 assists, helping secure Santos' stay. His overall record remains impressive. Neymar surpassed Pelé in September 2023 to become the top scorer in A matches, scoring 79 goals in 128 matches.
He is also preparing a "last card" for World Cup qualification. Neymar will receive help from Brazilian physiotherapist Eduardo Santos, known as "Doctor Miracle." According to ESPN, Neymar will undergo arthroscopic partial meniscectomy on his left knee and enter Santos' customized rehabilitation program. Philippe Coutinho, Matheus Cunha and others have achieved quick returns under his care.
Ancelotti's view is cold. He said, "Brazil may or may not be with Neymar. We owe nothing to anyone," and warned, "A final decision will be made after the March FIFA schedule." The World Cup is in June, and the final roster is confirmed in May. There is not much time left.
Whether Neymar can link his choice at Santos to a return to the national team, his final World Cup bid has been put to the test.
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