The road to the 2026 World Cup is beginning to take shape, and one of the players determined to write his final chapter on the biggest stage is Neymar. The Santos forward is not only focused on making Brazil’s final squad, but he is also envisioning the perfect scenario: facing Lionel Messi and the Argentina National Team in the final.

At 34 years old, the Brazilian finds himself at a crucial moment in his career. His place in the upcoming tournament is not yet secured, as it will ultimately depend on Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Brazil. Still, the player has made it clear that his ambition remains strong.

A dream beyond just making the squad

Following a recent match with Santos, Neymar openly expressed his desire to be part of football’s biggest tournament. Representing Brazil at a World Cup continues to be one of the greatest goals of his career.

But his vision goes even further. The former FC Barcelona star imagines a dream clash against Lionel Messi, his former teammate and close friend. A final between Brazil and Argentina would be, in his own words, “spectacular,” both personally and for global football.

Such a showdown would also carry historic significance, potentially marking the final chapter in a legendary rivalry led by Neymar and Messi.

The key factor: his fitness

Beyond talent, the biggest challenge for Neymar is regaining peak physical condition. Injuries in recent months have disrupted his rhythm, and the coaching staff of Brazil has made it clear that his inclusion will largely depend on his fitness.

Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized that the player’s quality is unquestionable, but his physical readiness will be decisive when making the final call. As a result, the forward is working intensively to be in top shape by June.

A World Cup filled with history

The 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is expected to be historic. Icons like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Neymar could be playing their final tournament, adding a unique emotional layer to the competition.

In that context, the possibility of a final between Argentina and Brazil would not only be a sporting spectacle but also a symbolic ending to an era.

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