As Brazil gears up for the 2026 World Cup, Neymar has been included in the squad, albeit in a different capacity than before. Coach Carlo Ancelotti recently reached out to Neymar via video call to discuss his role in the upcoming tournament. Ancelotti emphasized that contributing to the team could mean being on the bench, a sentiment that Neymar accepted with grace.

In the lead-up to the World Cup, there has been much speculation among Brazilian fans regarding Neymar's inclusion in the squad. Ancelotti's decision to include Neymar comes after a year of injuries that kept him off the field for significant periods. Despite not being at his peak physically, Ancelotti believes that having Neymar in the squad, even in a limited role, will be beneficial for the team's morale and strategy.

Neymar, who has faced challenges over the past two years, including serious knee injuries, expressed his readiness to support the team in any way possible. During their conversation, he assured Ancelotti that he would be a team player, ready to help the squad achieve their goal of winning the World Cup.

However, Neymar's recent performance raised concerns. He had to leave the field during a match against Coritiba due to calf discomfort, which led Ancelotti to seek further medical evaluations before finalizing the squad. The coach had two potential lineups: one including Neymar and another featuring Joao Pedro instead. Ultimately, Ancelotti opted for the former, trusting Neymar's experience and leadership, even if he might not be the star player he once was.

As the tournament approaches, Neymar's journey reflects a shift from being the main star to a more supportive role, showcasing his commitment to the Brazilian national team and their quest to end a 24-year title drought.