Former Brazil World Cup winner Luizão has sparked debate after suggesting that Neymar may lack the ambition to fight for a place in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil, under new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, is currently preparing for the tournament, but Neymar has notably been left out of recent selections. Ancelotti has cited the forward’s fitness concerns as the primary reason, stating that the former Barcelona star will be reconsidered once he proves he is fully fit.

Despite Neymar’s reported determination to return, Luizão believes the situation goes beyond fitness. Drawing comparisons with his former teammate Ronaldo Nazário, who famously battled injuries to lead Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002, Luizão argued that true desire should drive a player to push harder for selection.

Speaking on the World Champion with Galvão show, Luizão suggested that when a player truly wants to be at the World Cup, they make it happen — both physically and mentally.

Brazil is expected to name its final squad in May, with friendly matches against Panama and Egypt lined up before their Group C opener against Morocco.

🧠 Opinion: Fitness or Fire — What Really Defines Greatness?

Luizão’s comments may sound harsh, but they tap into a deeper question: what separates great players from legends?

There’s no doubt Neymar’s talent is undeniable. At his peak, he has been one of the most exciting players of his generation. But football history tends to remember not just skill — but resilience, sacrifice, and hunger in crucial moments.

The comparison with Ronaldo Nazário is powerful for a reason. Ronaldo didn’t just return from injury — he came back with something to prove, and he delivered when it mattered most.

However, it’s also important to be fair. Football today is different. Injuries are managed more cautiously, careers are longer, and players often face intense scrutiny both on and off the pitch. Neymar’s journey has been shaped by these realities.

Still, Luizão’s core message stands: at the highest level, desire must be visible.

If Neymar truly wants to be part of Brazil’s World Cup story in 2026, it won’t just be about regaining fitness — it will be about showing that same urgency and determination that defined the legends before him.

Until then, the debate will continue: is Neymar being held back by his body, or by something deeper?