Neymar could be dropped from the Brazil national team squad

12:14 / 28.04.2026·341·Sport

In brief

Neymar's position in the Brazil national team is under scrutiny as the 2026 World Cup approaches. The team has heavily relied on him during the last three World Cups, but after 24 years without a title since 2002, the burden on the star player has become increasingly heavy. Despite his debut in 2010 amid the decline of legends like Ronaldinho and Kaká, Brazil is now seeking new talent, making it challenging to transition away from the dependency on Neymar. His past injuries and off-field controversies have also impacted his performance, raising questions about the team's future without him.

The Brazil national team has relied solely on Neymar throughout the last three World Cups. However, as the 2026 tournament approaches, the inclusion of the team's all-time leading scorer in the squad remains in question. Goal.com reports on this matter.

The 24-year trophy-less period following the 2002 championship has placed a heavy burden on the star player's shoulders.

When Neymar made his national team debut in 2010, legends like Ronaldinho and Adriano had passed their prime, while Kaka was struggling with injuries. The Santos academy graduate did not inherit a baton; instead, he was forced to occupy the vacant throne alone.

This led to the phenomenon of "Neymar-dependencia" in Brazilian football—an over-reliance on a single player.

At the 2014 home World Cup, Neymar was responsible for half of the team's goals, but an injury in the quarter-finals sidelined him. In his absence, Brazil suffered a humiliating 1-7 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals.

This event demonstrated to the entire world how vulnerable the team was without its key individual.

Prior to the 2018 tournament in Russia, Neymar had become the world's most expensive footballer. However, injuries and off-field controversies negatively impacted his performance.

Today, the Brazil national team is searching for new stars, but starting a new era without Neymar after 20 years of dependence is proving difficult.