Brazilian forward Rodrygo has called for Neymar’s swift return to the national team, expressing his belief that Brazil’s chances of winning the 2026 World Cup rest heavily on the injured superstar, Soccernet.football reports.
Neymar, who has been sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury since October last year, remains uncertain about when he will make his comeback.
Neymar’s injury has kept him out of action for Al-Hilal, and it has been rumoured that the Saudi club might hold him out until January to accommodate their foreign player limit for the first half of the 2024-25 season.
Meanwhile, Brazil has struggled in the former Barcelona star’s absence, sitting fourth in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, eight points adrift of leaders Argentina.
Rodrygo, a rising star at Real Madrid and a key figure in Brazil’s squad, spoke to ESPN about the significant impact Neymar’s absence has had on the team.
“I have no words. Everyone can see it, it’s clear how much he’s missed. He’s our star, our best player,” Rodrygo said. “To win a World Cup, everyone has to be well to help him. If he’s well, which is what we’re hoping for, he’s in the final stages of his recovery. We want him back as soon as possible.”
Rodrygo also shared his personal connection with Neymar, adding, “I always exchange messages with him… He’s a great partner. I feel sad when I see someone talking badly about him because of the person he is. I love him. In addition to being my idol as a player, as a person he has shown himself to be a fantastic person.”
As Brazil prepare for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Paraguay, Rodrygo remains hopeful that Neymar’s return will inspire the team to greater success on their road to 2026.