Brazil vs France: Mbappé's touching words for Neymar

World 26 March 2026 at 05:39

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

After being absent from the Brazil national team since October 2023, Neymar could take part in the 2026 World Cup. He can count on Kylian Mbappé to help win over Carlo Ancelotti.

A former teammate of Neymar at PSG, Kylian Mbappé discussed the situation of his ex-colleague.

"Who embodies Brazil the most, Neymar or Vinicius? I think it could be both. The truth is, Vini still needs to take a step up with the national team, but Neymar is Neymar. He’s a truly great player. The World Cup is the tournament of stars, all the stars are there. And in my book, Neymar is one of the biggest stars. I can’t imagine a World Cup without Neymar. But in the end, I can’t go against my former coach, Ancelotti. You have to respect his decision. Still, Neymar for me is a player who makes a real difference. I played with him, I learned a lot from him. We’ll have to see how he is, but I know Neymar—he will prepare for the World Cup and he’ll be there, I know it," the French international told Globo Esporte.

Neymar will have to convince Seleção manager Carlo Ancelotti.