Neymar Jr ready for FIFA World Cup

Neymar & the 2026 World Cup: Where Things Stand

Neymar has been battling significant injury problems. In October 2023, he suffered a serious knee injury (involving the ACL and meniscus) while playing for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier.
More recently, he has had issues with his thigh (or leg muscle) which ruled him out of certain Brazil qualifiers (e.g. vs. Colombia and Argentina) during the 2025 qualifying campaign.
His fitness is being carefully managed; coaches are cautious about his minutes and roles until he’s clearly back to full sharpness.

After his stint at Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia), which was hampered by injuries and limited playing time, Neymar returned in early 2025 to his boyhood club, Santos FC
At Santos, he has shown promising signs: contributing goals and assists, regaining match fitness, and recently managing a full 90 minutes in a match for the first time in a while.
He extended his contract with Santos until the end of 2025, with an eye toward being fit and ready for national team duty and the World Cup.

Neymar has stated that 2026 will likely be his last World Cup. He has expressed determination to be involved and contribute.
Brazil’s coach(es) have made clear that Neymar’s inclusion will depend heavily on fitness. His technical ability is not in question, but physical readiness is a key consideration.
Brazil have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup (this was confirmed), but the qualifying campaign has had its difficulties; Neymar’s absence in certain matches due to injury (or being unavailable) has been felt.
The competition for places in Brazil’s squad is always strong; younger players are making their case, so Neymar will need not just recovery but consistent high-level performances to guarantee selection.

Neymar’s 2026 World Cup is expected to be his last at that level.
Whether he plays in it depends largely on how well he recovers physically and manages to stay fit leading up to the tournament.
His form at Santos is improving, which is positive. But there are still doubts owing to recurring injuries.
Brazil has depth and emerging talent; so even though Neymar remains an important figure, he’s no longer absolutely guaranteed a spot—it will be contingent on his performance and fitness.