Brazil legend Romário, says Brazil will look like any other team without Neymar at this year’s world cup to be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.
Neymar’s potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup has become one of the most debated topics surrounding the Brazil national team, as the forward has made it clear he hopes to feature in what would likely be his final appearance at the tournament.
With his return to the Seleção still uncertain, a Brazilian legend insists everything must be done to ensure Neymar is part of the party adding without Neymar, Brazil would become “just another team.”
Romário, who led Brazil to a memorable World Cup triumph in the United States in 1994, remains one of the most iconic figures in the country’s soccer history. A winner of two Copa América titles and a Confederations Cup, the former Barcelona and Valencia striker believes Neymar remains the centerpiece of Brazil’s current project.
In an interview with Veja Magazine, Romário did not hesitate to address the potential consequences of Neymar missing the World Cup: “Neymar’s absence is certainly very bad for Brazil. The sixth title will definitely be farther away. We can only hope he is physically well and able to give everything he has.”
Even acknowledging Neymar’s ongoing fitness concerns, Romário stressed that the Santos star remains a decisive figure regardless of his condition.
“I don’t know if he’ll be able to be there without issues, but if Neymar is at 70 percent, that’s already good enough—he already helps, he already makes a difference,” he added.
Nearly two and a half years have passed since Neymar last wore the Brazil jersey, on October 17, 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL against Uruguay.
Since then, the Seleção has undergone significant changes, both on the field and off it, including shifts in leadership and a noticeable decline in dominance.
