Neymar's hopes of playing in the FIFA World Cup 2026 are now all but over, according to a report by CNN Brasil.
The Brazilian star was left out of the squad for the team's upcoming World Cup warm-up matches, and a video he released expressing his desperation to get back on track has not gone down well with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
Internal sources within the CBF have described Neymar as 'practically out' of the World Cup squad, citing a growing lack of confidence over his fitness and increasing 'behind-the-scenes unease' between the player and the federation's leadership.
The situation is termed 'extremely complicated,' with one incident, in particular, having worsened the situation. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti had travelled to watch Neymar in action, but Neymar did not feature and reportedly made no effort to meet or acknowledge the coach.
While Neymar still has matches left this season with Santos to prove his fitness and form, the reality remains stark, and it would take something extraordinary, if not miraculous, for him to force his way back into contention.
