A new training clip of Neymar has gone viral on social media, showing the Brazilian star casually pulling off a slick technical move during practice. The moment quickly triggered a wave of reactions from fans arguing that the 34-year-old still has the skill to play for Brazil national football team – and should be part of the squad heading toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
But beyond the highlight itself, the video has reopened a larger discussion surrounding Neymar’s current form, his fitness, and whether he can realistically return to the national team setup. The debate is nothing new – but the context around Neymar in 2026 makes it more complicated than a single viral clip.
The real issue has never been talent
Even critics rarely question Neymar’s technical ability.The forward remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals and one of the most gifted attackers of his generation. However, the key concern surrounding his national team future has been reliability, not talent.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has made that point clear: Neymar can still be part of the squad – but only if he proves he is in the right physical shape to compete at the highest level. After suffering a serious knee ligament injury in 2023, Neymar spent nearly a year recovering and has struggled to regain consistent playing rhythm since returning to club football. That long road back has been the main obstacle in his push for one last major tournament with Brazil.
Viral criticism also fueled the discussion
The latest viral clip actually arrives after a very different moment went viral earlier this year. In February, footage from a match showed Neymar struggling to chase down a loose ball during a game with Santos FC, prompting harsh reactions from fans who questioned whether he still had the physical explosiveness required for elite competition.
Some even suggested the Brazilian icon was “done” at the highest level. That criticism has been part of the narrative surrounding Neymar’s comeback – and why moments that show him looking sharp or comfortable during training now attract so much attention.
Neymar has responded to the criticism
The Brazilian star has not stayed silent about the debate surrounding his body and form. Recently, Neymar addressed speculation about his physical condition and the constant scrutiny that comes with it, saying it is “very difficult to be me,” while expressing frustration at the constant criticism he receives.
The message reflects the pressure that has followed him during the latter stages of his career. While Neymar continues to show flashes of brilliance at Santos, his ability to maintain rhythm and stay healthy remains the key factor that will determine whether he returns to Brazil’s squad.
Support from inside Brazilian football
Despite the criticism, several figures in Brazilian football continue to back Neymar. Veteran defender Thiago Silva has publicly supported the idea of Neymar being part of Brazil’s plans for the 2026 World Cup, stressing his importance to the national team when fit. Other voices around the game have echoed a similar message: Neymar’s quality is unquestioned – the only question is whether his body can keep up with the demands of international football.
The next few months will be crucial. Brazil’s coaching staff is evaluating options ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and Neymar has not played for the national team since his 2023 knee injury.
With younger stars like Vinícius Júnior and Endrick emerging, competition for attacking spots is stronger than ever. That means Neymar’s path back is simple – at least on paper: stay healthy, play consistently, and show he can still influence games at the highest level.
A viral training clip may remind fans of the magic. But Brazil’s final decision will likely depend on something far less flashy – durability.
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