Neymar’s last shot? Brazil star plots dramatic 2026 World Cup finale as Ancelotti era begins

February 26, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Neymar is preparing for what could be the defining chapter of his career.

According to Transfer News Live, @DeadlineDayLive, via ESPN Brasil, the 33 year old forward has been speaking openly inside the Santos dressing room about his determination to represent Brazil at the 2026 World Cup in North America. The report states that he considers the tournament the “last mission” of his career and plans to do everything in his power over the coming months to be ready.

For Neymar, the stakes are personal as much as professional. Injuries have disrupted recent seasons, limiting his rhythm and raising questions about his long term international future. Still, the reporting suggests he believes one final World Cup would offer an opportunity to close his international career on his own terms.

A comeback driven by unfinished business

Brazil’s preparations for 2026 are already underway, with the Brazilian Football Confederation, CBF, shaping a squad it hopes can compete for the title in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Neymar’s experience and record for Brazil could strengthen his case if he proves his fitness and consistency at Santos.

He has featured in multiple World Cups, carrying major expectations in 2014 on home soil, returning in 2018, and leading the side again in 2022. Each campaign ended short of lifting the trophy, adding extra weight to the possibility of one final attempt.

Ultimately, selection will depend on performance. Brazil’s emerging attacking talents will compete for limited spots, and sustained form will be essential if Neymar is to secure a place in the squad.

Influence behind the scenes in Brazil’s rebuild

Separate reporting from Radio MARCA in April 2025 indicated that an individual close to Neymar was influential in supporting the CBF’s efforts to appoint Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil head coach as part of the federation’s 2026 project.

According to Radio MARCA, Neymar did not personally negotiate with the federation, but members of his entourage backed the move as Brazil pursued the Italian manager.

Carlo Ancelotti officially took charge in mid 2025 and later extended his contract, signaling continuity as Brazil build toward the next World Cup cycle.

The reports illustrate how on field ambition and off field relationships can intersect in Brazilian football, where leading players, their representatives, and federation leadership often operate within overlapping networks.

Whether Neymar ultimately earns a place in Brazil’s 2026 squad will depend on what happens on the pitch. But according to Transfer News Live, @DeadlineDayLive, via ESPN Brasil, his determination to treat the tournament as his “last mission” is already shaping the conversation around his future.

Sources: Transfer News Live, @DeadlineDayLive via ESPN Brasil