Brazilian superstar Neymar has expressed his excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that he feels “like a child again” as he prepares for what is expected to be the final World Cup appearance of his illustrious career.
The 34-year-old forward shared his thoughts in the documentary Vai, Brasil!, produced by Globo Esporte, which follows Brazil’s preparations during the final year leading up to the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Neymar Embraces His Fourth World Cup
Despite having already played in three World Cups, Neymar revealed that this edition carries a unique emotional significance.
“Even though this is my fourth World Cup, the feeling is completely different,” Neymar said. “Because of everything surrounding this tournament, and because it will clearly be the last World Cup of my career.”
The Brazilian icon compared his emotions to those of a teenager preparing for his first major international tournament.
“Today, I have the mentality of an 18-year-old boy getting ready to play in his first World Cup,” he added.
Injury Concerns Cast Doubt Over Tournament Start
While Neymar remains determined to lead Brazil’s quest for glory, concerns continue to surround his physical condition.
The Santos star is currently undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program after suffering a calf injury on May 17. Although significant progress has been made in his recovery, he has yet to rejoin full team training with the Brazilian national squad.
As a result, his participation in Brazil’s opening World Cup match against Morocco is considered highly unlikely. The coaching staff is instead targeting the second group-stage match as a possible return date.
Ancelotti Places His Trust in Neymar
Despite Neymar’s recent injury struggles, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti decided to include the forward in his final 26-man squad for the tournament.
The decision highlights the importance of Neymar’s experience, leadership, and quality as Brazil aims to capture a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has not played a competitive match for Brazil since October 2023, when a serious knee injury suffered against Uruguay sidelined him for nearly a year.
One Final Opportunity to Make History
Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 international goals and has featured in every World Cup since 2014.
However, the ultimate prize has continued to elude him. Brazil's best result during Neymar’s World Cup journey came in 2014, when the Seleção reached the semifinals before suffering a historic defeat to Germany. Neymar missed that match through injury, adding another painful chapter to his international career.
Now, with time running out and one final World Cup on the horizon, the Brazilian legend is determined to enjoy every moment.
“I am proud and extremely happy to be here,” Neymar said. “I will enjoy every second and every moment of this World Cup. I hope it becomes a special and unforgettable tournament.”
For Neymar, the 2026 World Cup represents more than another tournament—it is the final chapter of a remarkable international career and perhaps his last chance to lift football’s most coveted trophy.
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