Neymar faces 16-game audition at Santos before Brazil’s 19 May World Cup call | OneFootball

Neymar has up to 16 matches with Santos to convince Carlo Ancelotti before 19 May, when Brazil’s coach will name his 26 for the World Cup.

According to Globo.com, he was omitted from the March friendlies against France and Croatia and would only be taken if he is 100% fit. The Brazil staff view him as short of his possibilities and, if that persists, he will not be called. Since returning to Santos in January last year he has battled injuries, including knee arthroscopy in December.

Between now and 19 May there are 10 Brasileirão fixtures. The Copa do Brasil fifth phase runs from late April into the first half of May, adding two legs. The Copa Sul-Americana group stage begins from 7 April, offering up to four more games, taking the total to 16.

This year he has four appearances for Santos, with two goals and two assists. Since becoming available, he missed one match for load management.

His last Brazil appearance was in October 2023. In August last year he managed his longest Santos run, six consecutive matches, and now must weigh preservation against pushing to showcase form in a demanding stretch.

Source: Globo.com