Rafael Nogueira
Brazil‘s record scorer Neymar has fired back at what he called “nonsense” criticism surrounding his fitness, stating he has done everything possible to prove he belongs in the World Cup squad. The forward has been absent from international duty since 2023, sidelined by a series of serious injuries including a knee operation that kept him off the pitch for a full year.
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Speaking to reporters after Santos‘ 3-0 defeat to Coritiba on Sunday, the 34-year-old was direct about his physical condition and the process of returning to form.
“Physically, I feel great. I’ve been improving with every game. I’ve done my absolute best – it wasn’t easy. I’ll admit it wasn’t easy. It’s been years of hard work, and also of a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing. It’s really sad the way people talk about it. I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out. I’ve made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance, with everything I’ve done so far… Whatever happens, Ancelotti will certainly call up the 26 best players for this battle.”
Neymar involved in substitution controversy just before World Cup squad announcement. Source: CHOSUNBIZ
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has previously stated that Neymar must be fully fit and performing at a high level to earn a place in the squad. Sunday’s match added an unwanted complication: Neymar was involved in a visible protest after being incorrectly substituted, an incident that carried extra weight given Ancelotti was due to announce his World Cup squad on Monday.
Read also: Ancelotti: Neymar’s World Cup Fate Rests on Fitness and Form Alone
Brazil are chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup title. They will compete in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland during the tournament running from June 11 to July 19 across North America.
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