Ronaldo: Neymar key for Copa, backs Ancelotti’s approach | OneFootball

Historical idol of the Brazilian National Team, Ronaldo Fenômeno spoke this Wednesday (17), during the inauguration of Casa Rede Ronaldo in São Paulo, about his expectations for the 2026 World Cup. The former striker emphasized the importance of the tournament as a “release valve” for the Brazilian people and pointed to Carlo Ancelotti as a key figure in the pursuit of a sixth championship.

“The expectations surrounding the National Team are always very high, especially for our people, where we face problems daily. Football has always been a release valve, and the World Cup generates this anticipation because of the success we’ve had in the past. Of course, we will be cheering a lot for the National Team and for Ancelotti to be able, with all his experience, to bring us the sixth title,” said Ronaldo.

Asked about the team’s dependence on Neymar, the Phenomenon was straightforward: he believes Brazil can win with any squad, but sees the number 10 as a fundamental player if he is in good condition.

“I think Brazil can achieve anything with the players it has available. But I believe Neymar can be a very important piece for the World Cup, and I will be rooting for him to be 100% at the right time. I talk to him from time to time, and I can see he really wants to be at the World Cup and help the National Team,” he emphasized.

The statements come amid special attention to the Santos forward. At the end of August, Neymar was left out of the National Team call-up, something Carlo Ancelotti attributed to a “technical decision,” despite doubts about his fitness. Earlier this month, Brazil finished the Qualifiers with the worst campaign in its history, and having Neymar at 100% is seen as a priority by the coaching staff. The CBF has even been receiving constant medical reports from Santos about the player’s physical progress.

Regarding Ancelotti, Ronaldo praised the arrival of the Italian coach to lead the National Team. “He’s a wonderful guy, a team player, who will always bring harmony and motivation. Not to mention, tactically, he’s brilliant, a winner. I think Ancelotti and the National Team have everything it takes to succeed,” he stated.

Finally, the Phenomenon advised Neymar to stay focused on his physical recovery and to minimize the criticism.

“He’s coming back from a serious injury, so this readaptation is natural. I think some of the criticism he gets is a bit exaggerated, but it comes with the territory because of the expectations always placed on him. Neymar knows what he needs to do to be 100% for the World Cup,” he concluded.

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