Brazil legend Ronaldinho has publicly supported Neymar’s potential return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding further pressure and attention to Carlo Ancelotti’s selection decisions.
With debate growing over Neymar’s international future, one of Brazil’s greatest ever players has now joined the conversation.
🇧🇷 Ronaldinho strongly supports Neymar comeback
Speaking in an interview with Globo Esporte, Ronaldinho made it clear that he believes Neymar still has a key role to play for Brazil on the biggest stage.
“I hope he goes because I think he can be very helpful,” Ronaldinho said.
“Personally, I’m his friend, and I think he is one of the greatest talents in world football.”
The former Barcelona and AC Milan star, who retired in 2015, emphasised that while he supports Neymar’s return, the final decision rests with Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
“It’s the coach’s decision, and we have to respect it… We don’t know what the coach is thinking. He has his own plans.”
🔵 Neymar’s uncertain role in Brazil’s World Cup plans
Despite growing public support, Neymar has not yet been fully integrated into Ancelotti’s current Brazil plans for the 2026 World Cup cycle.
However, pressure is increasing from fans, former players, and football figures who believe the Santos forward could still be decisive if fit and available.
Ronaldinho also expressed confidence in Brazil’s overall squad strength heading into the tournament:
“I see Brazil doing very well. They have great players, and we wish them a good preparation so they arrive in top form.”
🤝 Ronaldinho and Neymar: teammates and rivals
Although they represent different football generations, Ronaldinho and Neymar briefly shared the pitch for Brazil.
Neymar made his international debut in 2010 and later played alongside Ronaldinho in a friendly against Argentina just months after his first appearance.
In total, the pair played 10 matches together for Brazil, recording:
- 6 wins
- 2 draws
- 2 defeats
They also faced each other at club level in Brazil’s top division, including a memorable 5–4 match between Santos and Flamengo, where Ronaldinho scored a hat-trick while Neymar also found the net.
🏆 Ronaldinho’s legacy strengthens his voice
As one of the most iconic figures in football history, Ronaldinho’s opinion carries significant weight.
During his career, he won:
- 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil
- 1999 Copa América
- 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup
- 2008 Olympic bronze medal
At club level, he became a global superstar with FC Barcelona, helping redefine attacking football in the early 2000s.
🔥 Offside Edge Insight
The debate over Neymar’s Brazil future continues to intensify, and with legends like Ronaldinho publicly backing his return, pressure will only grow on Ancelotti as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
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