Brazil needs Neymar healthy to secure victory in the 2026 World Cup

Real Madrid star Rodrygo has emphasized the importance of Neymar for Brazil’s ambitions to secure a sixth World Cup title in 2026. Following a crucial victory over Ecuador, which ended Brazil’s three-match losing streak in CONMEBOL qualifying, Rodrygo praised Neymar’s talent and influence.

In a recent interview with ESPN Brasil, the 23-year-old forward stated, “He’s our star, our best player. Anyone can see it, how much he is missed. Having Neymar healthy, which is what we all want, and he is in the final stages of his recovery. We want him back as soon as possible.”

Brazil’s national team, known for its rich footballing history, faced significant challenges late last year, suffering defeats against Uruguay, Colombia, and Argentina. These losses left them sixth in the standings after six rounds of qualifying. However, their recent win over Ecuador brings them up to 10 points, placing them in a more promising fourth position. The team is set to face Paraguay in Asuncion on Tuesday.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time men’s top scorer, underwent surgery on November 2, 2023, to address anterior cruciate ligaments and meniscus injuries in his left knee. His injury occurred during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay in October 2023.

The 31-year-old left his previous club Paris Saint-Germain to join Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal in a significant €90 million transfer during the summer of 2023. Neymar’s injury history includes multiple lengthy absences due to right ankle and foot issues, notably missing six weeks during 2021 and playing a limited role in Brazil’s victorious campaign at the 2019 Copa América.

Rodrygo maintains a close relationship with Neymar, viewing him as both an idol and a mentor. He remarks, “We always message each other. He is now returning to training with the group. He’s a great teammate. It makes me sad when I see someone talking badly about him, because of the person he is. He always sends me messages, helps me. I love him. In addition to being my idol as a player, as a person he has shown himself to be a fantastic person.”

Last season, Rodrygo had an impressive performance for Real Madrid, scoring 10 goals in 34 La Liga appearances, along with five goals in the Champions League. However, competition for his starting spot has intensified with the addition of superstar Kylian Mbappé to the squad. Despite this, coach Carlo Ancelotti has consistently included Rodrygo in a three-man forward lineup at the start of the current campaign.

In the most recent qualifying action, Paraguay managed to secure a goalless draw against Uruguay, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing qualification efforts for the 2026 World Cup.