Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has voiced his strong support for Neymar's potential call-up to the Brazilian national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine legend believes his friend and former rival has earned his place on the world's biggest stage.
Speaking about the Santos striker, Messi acknowledged his personal bias but emphasized Neymar's qualities. "I can't be objective. Neymar is my friend, so I want everything good to happen to him. He deserves it because of the person he is," Messi stated, as reported by Infobae.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner expressed a universal desire to see the best players compete. "I would like him to go there. We all want the best to play. Whatever happens with Neymar, he will always be among the best. It would be nice to see him at the World Cup because Ney means a lot to Brazil and football," Messi added.
Messi highlighted Neymar's distinctive personality as a key part of his legacy. "He has a special charisma, he lives his life and does as he feels. We talk from time to time, we have a friendship of many years," the Argentine captain explained.
The comments come as Neymar continues his career with Santos in Brazil, working to regain peak form and fitness ahead of the global tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. His participation would be a major storyline for the Seleção.
Messi's endorsement carries significant weight, coming from a contemporary who has shared the pitch with Neymar in some of the sport's most high-stakes matches. Their long-standing friendship adds a personal layer to the professional assessment.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be a landmark event, and the potential inclusion of a fully fit Neymar would undoubtedly boost the tournament's star power and competitive intrigue. Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.