Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad was always going to dominate headlines. Now, with fresh injury concerns emerging just days before the tournament begins, the veteran forward has become the biggest talking point surrounding Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
The 34-year-old is expected to miss Brazil’s opening Group C clash against Morocco after suffering another fitness setback, casting fresh doubt over his role in the tournament.
His availability for Brazil’s remaining group-stage matches against Haiti and Scotland also remains uncertain.
For many supporters, Neymar’s selection was an emotional decision as much as a football one.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar remains one of the greatest players in Brazil’s history and is still regarded by millions as the face of the national team.
However, his place in the squad has divided opinion.
Injuries have severely disrupted Neymar’s career in recent years and he has struggled to consistently perform at the elite level that once made him one of the world’s most feared attackers.
Despite that, Ancelotti chose to place his faith in the experienced forward, a decision that came at the expense of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro.
The omission of Pedro sparked immediate debate across Brazil.
The Chelsea star enjoyed an impressive campaign, scoring 20 goals in 50 appearances, and many believed he had done enough to earn a place on the plane to North America.
Football journalist Andy Brassell believes the sporting argument strongly favoured Pedro.
“In terms of sporting production, there’s no real argument for including Neymar ahead of him,” Brassell said.
“He’s not played to a consistently good level over the last two or three years. You’re taking him on a bit of a wing and a prayer.”
Yet Neymar’s influence extends beyond statistics.
His reputation, experience and iconic status within Brazilian football made him difficult to ignore, particularly with pressure mounting on Ancelotti to include one of the country’s most celebrated players.
Some supporters saw the call-up as a reward for everything Neymar has achieved in a Brazil shirt, while others viewed it as a gamble based more on legacy than current form.
That gamble now appears even riskier following the latest injury setback.
There is already growing speculation that if Neymar’s fitness deteriorates further, Ancelotti could be forced into a late squad change, potentially opening the door for Joao Pedro after all.
Ironically, such a scenario may solve what has become one of the most controversial selection decisions of the tournament.
For now, Brazil’s hopes of winning a sixth World Cup remain intact.
The squad still boasts world-class talent including Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Bruno Guimaraes and Casemiro.
But whether Brazil can fulfil their ambitions may depend heavily on Neymar’s condition.
If he recovers and rediscovers even a glimpse of his best form, he could become one of the stories of the tournament.
If injuries strike again, Ancelotti’s decision to take him may come under even greater scrutiny.
Either way, Neymar’s World Cup journey is already shaping up to be one of the defining storylines of Brazil’s campaign.
