Neymar Makes Bold World Cup Promise to Brazil, Backs Ancelotti for 2026 Glory

Santos forward Neymar Jr. has made a passionate pledge to the Brazilian people and new head coach Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, vowing to help deliver the coveted trophy back to Brazil.

The former Barcelona and PSG star, who has been sidelined from international football since October 2023 due to a serious knee injury, promised not only to lead Brazil to the final but also to score on the biggest stage if they get there.

“In July, you can hold me accountable. Hey Ancelotti, help us! If we get to the final… I promise I will score a goal,” Neymar was quoted as saying by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Neymar has not featured for the Seleção since suffering an ACL and meniscus injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Now 33, the forward is working his way back to full fitness and will be hoping to impress enough to earn a recall when Ancelotti begins shaping his squad for the tournament.

Opinion: A Statement of Belief, Not Just Bravado

Neymar’s words may sound bold, but they reflect a deeper truth—belief. Few players understand the weight of World Cup expectation like Neymar, whose international career has been defined by brilliance, pressure, and heartbreak. With Brazil last lifting the trophy in 2002, the hunger is real.

The arrival of Ancelotti brings renewed optimism. Known for managing big personalities and delivering in high-stakes moments, the Italian tactician could be exactly what Neymar—and Brazil—need. If Neymar regains full fitness and rhythm, his experience, creativity, and leadership could be invaluable to a squad blending youth with pedigree.

Still, the road back will not be easy. After such a long injury layoff, Neymar must first prove he can stay fit and perform consistently. But if he does, Brazil instantly become more dangerous.

Whether Neymar keeps his promise remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his heart is still firmly set on World Cup glory, and Brazil’s 2026 story may yet have its most famous chapter written by their No.10.