Ex-Brazilian striker sends warning to Neymar ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

Neymar was omitted from the Selecao squad for March’s World Cup qualifiers.

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Neymar has received counsel and a warning from the renowned former Brazilian attacker Ronaldo Nazario.

Neymar’s brief stint with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia was marred by injury and fitness issues, raising questions about his future with the Brazilian national team. The top scorer in the country hasn’t worn the renowned yellow shirt since October 2023, and his anticipated return this month was further delayed due to another injury.

The 33-year-old suffered a muscular injury while playing for Santos in his home country, which prevented him from playing against Colombia. He is also set to miss out on the game against Argentina.

However, the Selecao did manage to secure a 2-1 win against Colombia which further boosted their chances of securing a place in the final competition.

Neymar, who has scored 79 goals in 128 games for Brazil, suffered an ACL injury in a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay in October of last year.

Ronaldo Nazario is confident that Neymar will be included in the Brazilian team for the 2026 World Cup next year, even if it means sacrificing himself.

🔥 pic.twitter.com/Ijix9qCZht

— Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) March 21, 2025

Ronaldo stated in an interview with A Bola on the Charla Podcast: “I believe [Neymar will be at the next World Cup]. Neymar has a wonderful talent, but he will have to sacrifice himself. It depends only on him.

“It’s a sacrifice that’s worth it. The World Cup is one year away. If he gets there at a good level, we have a good chance. But he’s going to have to sacrifice. He’s going to have to eat, train and sleep.”

In order to be prepared for the World Cup, the former Al-Hilal star is competing for form and fitness. He will continue to play football for his boyhood team, Santos, in his native Brazil until the summer.

However, Neymar might be weighing his options. In his mind, he has lingering thoughts about making a return to European football before the tournament in North America next year. According to rumours, he could also make a spectacular comeback to Barcelona.

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