Lionel Messi makes ‘can’t be very objective’ admission over Neymar Jr.’s World Cup 2026 selection

Despite representing rival nations, their relationship has consistently stood above the traditional Argentina-Brazil divide, with both players publicly supporting each other over the years.

That personal connection is what makes Messi’s stance understandable, even as the debate around Neymar’s selection continues to intensify.

Neymar’s World Cup hopes remain uncertain despite Lionel Messi backing

Messi also made it clear that, from a football perspective, Neymar still belongs among the elite.

“At World Cups, we always want the best players to be there and Ney, as long as he’s around, will always be one of them,” Messi added.

That support comes at a time when Neymar’s place in Brazil’s squad is far from guaranteed. After dealing with injuries and limited involvement with the national team in recent months, his selection now depends heavily on his fitness and form heading into the tournament.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has already indicated that players will only be selected if they are fully fit, and with a younger core emerging in attack, competition for places has become stronger than in previous cycles.

Even so, Neymar remains part of the preliminary squad and continues to push for what could be his final World Cup appearance, with reports suggesting he is determined to prove his readiness before the final roster is confirmed.

That is what makes Messi’s comments stand out. Because while the decision may come down to form and fitness, his message is rooted in something simpler. He wants to see his friend there.

Read more:

• What Lamine Yamal thinks of childhood hero Neymar Jr.’s place in Brazil’s FIFA World Cup squad
• Former Brazil player downplays Neymar’s dedication to World Cup with a Ronaldo comparison
• One MLS team is reportedly trying to sign Neymar Jr. after his Santos contract expires