Former Brazil goalkeeper Fernando Velloso has criticized manager Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to include Neymar in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Velloso questioned Neymar’s physical condition and performance level, stating that the player cannot compete against top-tier teams.

He also accused Neymar of avoiding tough opponents (such as Palmeiras and Flamengo) and only playing against weaker teams while playing for Santos FC.

Why Pedro Is Better Than Neymar

In a chat with Novabrasil em campo, he stated that leaving out a player like Chelsea forward Joao Pedro in favour of an unfit Neymar is “one of the biggest mistakes in football”.

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“I would not call up Neymar for the World Cup. To take Neymar and not take Pedro is an absurdity of those that football allows.

“Pedro is the top scorer of everything, Neymar cannot even play against Recoleta and he is in the Cup.

“Neymar chose the matches. He didn’t play against Palmeiras, Flamengo, Bahia, but he played against Recoleta, Red Bull Bragantino… Only against the weak teams, to try to make a difference. And he didn’t do it.”

All-Time Goal Scorer For Brazil

Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, surpassing Pelé’s record.

Since his 2010 debut, he has been the central figure in attack, providing 238 assists and winning the 2013 Confederations Cup and 2016 Olympic Gold.

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Neymar is known for exceptional dribbling, playmaking, and goal-scoring ability, making him one of the most prolific goal contributors for the Seleção.

Neymar, 34, has expressed profound emotion and gratitude following his official inclusion in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting he “cried for several hours” after receiving the news.

“We must fight for another World Cup. I will devote everything to bringing the trophy back to Brazil”.