Neymar Faces Mounting Criticism at Santos as 2026 World Cup Dreams Hang in the Balance

Neymar displayed clear frustration after being taken off during Santos's weekend match, once again making headlines for negative reasons.

The Brazilian superstar featured for 85 minutes as Santos suffered a 3-2 defeat to Flamengo. This loss pushed Neymar's Santos into the relegation zone with only six matches remaining in Brazil's Serie A campaign.

Neymar was withdrawn at the Estadio Maracanã while his team was down by three goals. Upon leaving the field, he appeared to voice his displeasure about the substitution decision to Santos coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda.

"It's understandable that he [Neymar] was frustrated," Vojvoda commented while attempting to defuse the situation post-match, according to ESPN. "Any player would feel the same way, but I make the decisions about who comes off [the field]."

Neymar headed directly to the tunnel following his removal from the game.

"I find it completely normal if he felt upset. He showed no disrespect whatsoever, the mutual respect remains and players desire to contribute and assist during this challenging period for the club," Vojvoda continued.

This marked Neymar's first starting appearance for Santos since September 14, having recently returned from action after a muscle injury kept him sidelined for six weeks.

With Neymar's Santos contract set to expire at season's end, his priority will be assisting the club in avoiding relegation, otherwise his future prospects could become even more unclear.

Carlo Ancelotti: Neymar 'Obviously' Has a Chance to Play in 2026 World Cup

Just 48 hours before Neymar and Santos fell to Flamengo, Brazil's national team coach Carlo Ancelotti faced another inquiry about Neymar's prospects for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking with PLACAR, Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar is clearly under consideration as a potential representative for Brazil next summer. However, La Seleção's record goalscorer must first regain his peak form.

"It's expected [to receive constant questions about Neymar] because Neymar is an icon of Brazilian football," Ancelotti stated. "Everyone globally wants to see Neymar return to optimal physical condition. The coaching staff and I also hope Neymar can reach his highest level again."

Following Ancelotti's harsh criticism of Neymar during Brazil's November squad announcement, the Italian adopted a more optimistic tone when discussing the national icon and offered tactical advice.

"The reality is that modern football demands multiple qualities, not solely talent. Physical fitness and intensity are crucial. Hopefully Neymar can achieve his peak form," Ancelotti explained.

"He should operate more centrally, rather than on the wing. Today's wingers must contribute defensively as well. Playing in a more central position requires significantly less defensive responsibility compared to wing play."

Despite Ancelotti's supportive comments, consistently maintaining top physical condition and handling match intensity is something Neymar has struggled with over the last three years.

Indeed, MLS clubs that could represent potential destinations for the Brazilian once his Santos contract concludes harbor significant concerns about Neymar's capacity to revive his career, according to ESPN.

Neymar must rapidly overcome his fitness challenges, or it's difficult to imagine him having any opportunity to feature in the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar's Statistics Since Leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2023

Neymar has been absent for well over 100 matches for club and country since early 2023, as numerous injuries have severely impacted the 33-year-old recently.