Neymar slams 'nonsense' criticism: I have worked hard for FIFA World Cup
Brazil's record scorer Neymar said he had to endure "nonsense" criticism as he worked his way back from serious injuries and is satisfied he has done all he can to prove he is fully fit and deserves a place in Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad.
Brazil star Neymar has dismissed criticism surrounding his fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup, saying he endured years of “nonsense” talk while working his way back from serious injuries.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has not played for the national team since 2023 after injuries and knee surgery sidelined him for nearly a year. With coach Carlo Ancelotti making it clear that only fully fit players will make the squad, Neymar said he had done everything possible to return in top condition.
“Physically, I feel great. I've been improving with every game,” Neymar told reporters after Santos’ 3-0 loss to Coritiba on Sunday.
“I've done my absolute best – it wasn't easy. I'll admit it wasn't easy.
“It's been years of hard work, and also of a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing. It’s really sad the way people talk about it.”
The 34-year-old said he stayed focused on his recovery despite the criticism surrounding him during his time away from the game.
“I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out.
“I've made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance, with everything I’ve done so far.”
Neymar added that he trusted Ancelotti to pick Brazil's right squad for the World Cup.
“Whatever happens, Ancelotti will certainly call up the 26 best players for this battle,” he said.
Neymar was also involved in a heated moment during Santos’ defeat after he was mistakenly substituted, leading to an angry exchange on the sidelines. The incident came just a day before Ancelotti was set to announce Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Brazil are chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup title and have been drawn alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in Group C of the tournament in North America.
Brazil star Neymar has dismissed criticism surrounding his fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup, saying he endured years of “nonsense” talk while working his way back from serious injuries.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has not played for the national team since 2023 after injuries and knee surgery sidelined him for nearly a year. With coach Carlo Ancelotti making it clear that only fully fit players will make the squad, Neymar said he had done everything possible to return in top condition.
“Physically, I feel great. I've been improving with every game,” Neymar told reporters after Santos’ 3-0 loss to Coritiba on Sunday.
“I've done my absolute best – it wasn't easy. I'll admit it wasn't easy.
“It's been years of hard work, and also of a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing. It’s really sad the way people talk about it.”
The 34-year-old said he stayed focused on his recovery despite the criticism surrounding him during his time away from the game.
“I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out.
“I've made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance, with everything I’ve done so far.”
Neymar added that he trusted Ancelotti to pick Brazil's right squad for the World Cup.
“Whatever happens, Ancelotti will certainly call up the 26 best players for this battle,” he said.
Neymar was also involved in a heated moment during Santos’ defeat after he was mistakenly substituted, leading to an angry exchange on the sidelines. The incident came just a day before Ancelotti was set to announce Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Brazil are chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup title and have been drawn alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in Group C of the tournament in North America.
