Hulk's Indifferent Response Casts Shadow Over Neymar's 2026 World Cup Prospects

"If he deserves it, he'll go." That brief, non-committal statement represented Hulk's entire take on whether Neymar belongs in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad. Hardly a passionate backing from a fellow Brazilian football legend.

When journalists pushed the former national team striker for more insight on Neymar's World Cup credentials, Hulk essentially declined to engage. "I apologise, but I was focused on the match," he responded, seemingly dismissing the significance of the question altogether. When a decorated former teammate can't offer even modest support, it speaks volumes about the shifting sentiment surrounding Neymar's international future.

The Clock is Ticking: Ancelotti's Deadline

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has taken a more diplomatic approach, though his underlying message remains clear. "He still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup," the Italian tactician told French publication L'Equipe. Make no mistake — that's not an invitation. It's a warning.

Neymar hasn't represented the Seleção since suffering a devastating knee injury in October 2023. Now back with Santos, he's been finding the net and working his way back to form — something Ancelotti acknowledged by noting "he's on the right track." However, being on the right track doesn't guarantee reaching the desired destination, and uncertainty remains about whether Neymar's journey leads to World Cup selection or another injury complication.

On paper, the statistics still favour inclusion. As Brazil's all-time top scorer at 32 years old — theoretically still in his peak years — his credentials are undeniable. With Brazil drawn into Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland, Neymar's vast experience could prove invaluable against tougher opponents in the knockout rounds. Yet Brazil's chances of advancing deep into the tournament depend critically on the squad's readiness entering the Round of 16 and beyond — and an under-prepared Neymar could become a significant weakness at that crucial stage.

When Legacy No Longer Guarantees Selection

This represents the dilemma Ancelotti cannot avoid. Nobody questions Neymar's legendary status or past contributions. What remains uncertain is his fitness level, match sharpness, and capacity to endure a gruelling tournament. Selecting him based purely on reputation only to watch him break down in the quarterfinals would constitute a catastrophic miscalculation. Conversely, excluding him and witnessing an early Brazilian exit would invite entirely different criticism.

The manager has made his position unmistakable: past accomplishments alone won't earn a roster spot. With just two months remaining, the burden falls squarely on Neymar's shoulders to settle the debate — because at present, even his former national team colleagues aren't willing to make the case on his behalf.