Both Messi and Ronaldo can play in the World Cup, but Neymar cannot. Spanish media say Neymar is trying hard, but the chances are slim.

If uninjured, 41-year-old Ronaldo and 38-year-old Messi will each participate in the 2026 US-Canada-Mexico World Cup with Portugal and Argentina, whereas 34-year-old Neymar probably won’t get the chance to compete for Brazil again. This highlights that self-discipline shapes legends; Neymar has squandered great potential and hasn’t achieved significant success with his national side.

According to the latest reports from Spanish outlet AS, Neymar is currently working hard to regain his fitness and form, but the likelihood of him being selected by coach Ancelotti to join Brazil’s squad for this summer’s World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico is quite low.

It is reported that Ancelotti is finalizing Brazil’s 26-man World Cup roster, and with an excess of attacking players, Neymar’s injuries, fragile condition, and ongoing post-surgery recovery mean he is far from peak fitness. Coupled with his long-term lack of professionalism, Neymar, who is several years younger than Messi and Ronaldo, ironically appears more like a veteran. Although Neymar hasn’t given up on playing in the US-Canada-Mexico World Cup, his chances of making the Brazilian squad have become very slim...

The international break in March will provide a clearer answer as Ancelotti finalizes the World Cup squad framework. Brazil will face France and Croatia in friendlies. If Neymar fails to make his last World Cup appearance, it would be a bitter farewell to the Samba team, signaling that retirement is not far off...