As Brazil prepares to face Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium, one question continues to dominate the football world:

Will Neymar finally return to Brazil's starting lineup?

Could the Selecão's all-time leading scorer get his biggest opportunity yet against Erling Haaland and the Norwegian Vikings?

HOPE GROWS

Neymar made his long-awaited World Cup debut in Brazil's third group-stage match against Scotland in Miami, coming on in the 76th minute on June 24.

Since then, fans have been eager to see more of the 34-year-old superstar, especially as Brazil has faced criticism for failing to produce convincing performances despite advancing in the tournament.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has fueled speculation by leaving the door open for Neymar to play a much bigger role against Norway.

"Neymar and Vinícius Jr. can play together... and they will play together," Ancelotti said in press conference ahead of Sunday's clash.

The Italian coach reinforced that message in an interview with Brazilian outlet Folha de S.Paulo.

"The important thing is that he can play. When I feel the team needs him, I'll put him on the field. Yes, he's ready to play 90 minutes."

However, Ancelotti stopped short of confirming Neymar as a starter.

Before the group stage, he made similar comments while Neymar remained on the bench against Morocco, Scotland, and Japan, after missing the match against Haiti as he continued recovering from injury.

Still, several Brazilian media outlets expect Neymar to be included in the starting XI against Norway.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) added to the anticipation by sharing a photo of Neymar on social media with the caption: "Tick-tock... The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 is almost here."

IS NEY FRUSTRATED WITH HIS LIMITED ROLE?

Ancelotti acknowledged in the same interview that Neymar isn't happy about spending so much time on the bench.

"He's not happy with the situation, but he's behaving very well. He's training extremely well."

The Brazil manager praised Neymar's professionalism and influence inside the dressing room.

"He's respectful, kind and loved by his teammates. He's an important figure because of his quality and because he's a humble person. I'm very happy with him."

Ancelotti also admitted that Neymar's desire to play is obvious.

"Of course he wants to play, like he always has. He doesn't come to me demanding minutes, but it's very clear. That's a positive thing. No player should be happy sitting on the bench."

NEYMAR ALREADY KNEW HIS ROLE

According to Ancelotti, Neymar understood exactly what was expected of him before accepting his place in Brazil's World Cup squad.

During the now-famous video call in which the coach informed him of his selection for a fourth World Cup, Neymar replied:

"No problem. I'll be one more member of the group, and I'll help."

Ancelotti's response was equally direct.

"Will you help me? Helping also means staying on the bench."

The Italian selected Neymar despite his recent injury struggles and inconsistent form, making it clear that the veteran would need to accept whatever role the team required.

THE HARSH REALITY

Neymar remains one of the biggest names in world football, but his role under Ancelotti has been far smaller than many expected.

He watched Brazil's matches against Morocco and Japan from the bench, played just 14 minutes against Scotland, and finally made his tournament debut only after Brazil had already secured the result.

Ancelotti defended his decision not to introduce Neymar earlier against Japan.

"I didn't break my promise to Neymar. We expected to bring him on between the 60th and 65th minute, but the team was controlling the match, and I didn't want to disrupt our tactical balance."

Rather than building his game plan around stopping Erling Haaland, Ancelotti appears focused on maximizing Brazil's attacking talent, with Vinícius Júnior leading the front line while Bruno Guimarães remains the team's midfield engine.

If Norway manages to push Brazil into a difficult situation, Neymar could finally become the game-changing option many fans have been waiting to see.

At the same time, there is growing speculation that this could be Neymar's final World Cup appearance, whether Brazil lifts the trophy or not.

While some criticism has been directed toward Ancelotti for calling him up only to use him sparingly, Neymar's recent injuries, declining form, and past disciplinary issues have also contributed to his reduced role.

LEADERSHIP REMAINS

Even without regular minutes, Neymar continues to play an important role within Brazil's squad.

His commitment in training, close relationship with Vinícius Júnior, mutual respect with Casemiro, and mentorship of young stars such as Endrick have made him one of the team's most influential leaders off the pitch.

For a Brazil side still searching for its best form and far from convincing as a title contender, those contributions may prove just as valuable as a goal or an assist.

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