Neymar vows to score if Brazil reach 2026 World Cup final
Neymar Jr has issued a public pledge to Brazil supporters ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, declaring his intention to play a decisive role if the Selecao reach the final of the tournament in North America.
Speaking after an impressive domestic season with Santos, the 33-year-old forward said Brazil are well positioned to challenge for the title and urged fans to hold him accountable for his words.
Neymar went as far as promising to score if Brazil make the final, calling on head coach Carlo Ancelotti to help guide the team back to the summit of world football.
The former Barcelona star has not featured for Brazil since suffering an ACL and meniscus injury in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023.
He is yet to play under Ancelotti, who took charge in June following a difficult qualification campaign, but remains focused on forcing his way back into contention.
Neymar vows to win the World Cup for Brazil – Getty image
Return ambitions under Ancelotti
Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals and is determined to be part of the squad for what is likely to be his final World Cup.
Staying fit and competitive over the next year is now the priority as he targets a return to international action.
Santos renewal close
Off the pitch, Neymar is reportedly close to extending his stay at Santos. His current short-term deal expires this month, but discussions with club president Marcelo Teixeira have progressed positively, with a six-month extension until the World Cup understood to be in place.
Despite an injury-hit spell that limited him to 30 appearances this year, Neymar still delivered 12 goals and six assists, including a decisive late-season run that helped Santos avoid relegation.
He has prioritised continuity at the club and is not actively pursuing a move elsewhere, viewing stability as key to his World Cup ambitions.
