Neymar hits back at ‘nonsense’ criticism over injury recovery

SAO PAULO, Brazil: Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar has dismissed criticism surrounding his fitness, saying he endured years of “nonsense” comments while recovering from serious injuries and believes he has done enough to earn a place in Brazil’s FIFA World Cup squad.

The 34-year-old Santos forward has not represented Brazil since 2023 after suffering injuries that required knee surgery and kept him sidelined for nearly a year.

Speaking to reporters after Santos’ 3-0 defeat to Coritiba on Sunday, Neymar said he was physically improving with every game and had worked hard behind the scenes to regain full fitness.

“Physically, I feel great. I’ve been improving with every game,” Neymar said.

“I’ve done my absolute best – it wasn’t easy. It’s been years of hard work, and also of a lot of nonsense being said about my condition and what I was doing.”

The Brazilian star said criticism during his recovery period had been painful, adding that he quietly continued rehabilitation despite doubts over his condition.

“I worked hard, quietly, at home, suffering because of what people were saying, and it all worked out,” he said.

“I’ve made it to where I wanted to be in one piece. I’m happy with my performance and everything I’ve done so far.”

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has previously said Neymar would only be considered for the World Cup squad if he was fully fit and performing consistently.

Neymar said he respected whatever decision Ancelotti makes when naming his final 26-man squad.

“Whatever happens, Ancelotti will certainly call up the 26 best players for this battle,” he added.

The forward was also involved in a heated moment during Sunday’s match after he was mistakenly substituted, leading to visible frustration on the sidelines.

The incident came just hours before Ancelotti was due to announce Brazil’s squad for the World Cup.

Brazil, chasing a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title, have been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland for the tournament scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19 in North America.