Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has issued an emotional plea to Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, urging him to include Santos forward Neymar in the Seleção squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The request follows Ancelotti's decision to omit the veteran star from the March international break roster, citing concerns that Neymar is not yet "100% fit."
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former England defender argued that players of Neymar's caliber are essential for the "iconic moments" that define a World Cup.
Despite Neymar's recent move back to Santos and his ongoing battle with fitness, Ferdinand believes his presence is non-negotiable for a tournament of this magnitude.
“Neymar has not made the recent squad, man, I cannot believe it,” Ferdinand said. “The greats of the game, the icons... he could produce one of those moments. I am telling you, please, Carlo, get Neymar back in.”
Ancelotti, who took the reins of the Brazilian national team to lead them to a record-extending sixth title, has prioritized high-intensity fitness in his early selections.
However, with the World Cup just months away, the debate over whether to lean on Neymar's experience or youthful energy continues to divide football fans globally.
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