Ronaldo Nazario Backs Neymar as Key for Brazil at 2026 World Cup

Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario believes Neymar Jr., Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals, will be crucial at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite recent injuries, Ronaldo insists criticism of Neymar is unfair, stressing his recovery and readiness are vital. Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, qualified after finishing fifth with 28 points in their worst-ever campaign.

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario has voiced his belief that Neymar Jr. will be a decisive figure for Brazil if he reaches peak fitness. Neymar, Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals, is determined to feature in what will be his fourth World Cup. After parting ways with Al Hilal, he returned to his boyhood club Santos in January 2025 to regain form and fitness.

However, injuries have plagued his progress, with a torn ACL in October 2023 followed by thigh and muscular issues earlier this year, keeping him out of Carlo Ancelotti’s initial squad selections. Despite Santos’ underwhelming domestic campaign and growing criticism from fans, Ronaldo defended Neymar, describing the backlash as exaggerated and stressing that the forward is still adapting after a long injury layoff.

He emphasized that Neymar has the hunger and mindset to be at his best for Brazil next year. Brazil has already secured qualification for the World Cup, though they endured their worst-ever qualifying run, finishing fifth with 28 points. Ronaldo remains confident that with players like Neymar fully fit, Brazil has the quality to compete for the ultimate prize on the world stage.