Neymar's future in the Brazilian national team remains in doubt for the upcoming World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
After a 1-1 home draw between Santos and Corinthians in the Brazilian championship, the Brazilian star took to the field in one of the last matches before Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti makes the official selection for the two decisive friendlies on the eve of the World Cup.
At the end of the match, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain striker spoke to "ESPN" and sent a clear message to the Italian coach, reports "Gazeta Express".
"I want to return to the national team and play in the World Cup, but it's not up to me."
"Regardless of whether I'm there or not, I'll always cheer for Brazil."
"Ney" remains Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, but the friendlies against France and Croatia will be the final tests before Ancelotti announces the final list of players who will take part in the World Cup.
According to reports from the Brazilian club, two members of staff from the Brazilian federation were present at the stadium to watch the match against Corinthians.
However, Ancelotti has been clear: he will only take players who are 100% fit to the World Cup.
The Italian coach has also hinted that some experienced players may not need further tests, which leaves Neymar with a small hope even if he is not called up for the upcoming friendlies.
However, the feelings about the 34-year-old Brazilian's physical condition are not very positive.
The former PSG player suffered a cruciate ligament rupture in October 2023 and underwent another knee surgery in December.
This year he has made fewer than 10 appearances for Santos, although he continues to show his talent.
Some reports even suggest that his absence from the match against Mirassol FC may have cost him his World Cup invitation, as Ancelotti was informed of the striker's absence just hours before the start of the match. /Express newspaper
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