Ex-Flamengo's Ronaldinho Gaúcho on taking Neymar to the World Cup

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·23 April 2026

Ex-Flamengo's Ronaldinho Gaúcho on taking Neymar to the World Cup

Neymar has not been called up to the Brazil national team since 2023

The World Cup is approaching, and the main debate on Brazil’s sports shows continues to be Neymar’s situation. With that in mind, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, former Flamengo player, commented on whether or not he would take Santos’ number 10 to the World Cup.

— We don’t know what’s going on in the coach’s mind. He (Neymar) has his own plans. Personally, I’m his friend and I think he is one of the greatest talents in world football. I hope he goes because I think he can help a lot, but that is the coach’s decision and we have to respect it — said Ronaldinho Gaúcho in an interview with GE this Thursday (23).

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WHAT IS THE SITUATION?

Neymar has not been called up to the Brazil national team since 2023, when he played in a South American World Cup qualifier. Therefore, the Santos player has still not been called up under Carlo Ancelotti’s management.

As a result, the player’s name is a constant topic of debate on social media and sports programs. Some want Neymar on the list, while others say there is no need for the number 10 to be among those called up.

WHEN IS THE FINAL SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT?

With that in mind, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will announce the final World Cup squad on May 18 in Rio de Janeiro. As a result, there is a lot of anticipation surrounding the 26 names. Finally, players such as Danilo, Léo Pereira and Lucas Paquetá, all from Flamengo, are expected to be included.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.