Neymar's decline, the door to the 2026 World Cup gradually closes

Neymar returned to Santos’ starting line-up for the first time since September, but the team still lost 3-0 to Flamengo last weekend. His lackluster form at club level – just three goals in 15 Serie A games in 2025/26 – has put his chances of making the 2026 World Cup in doubt, with coach Carlo Ancelotti not calling him up in November.

Highlights of the match Santos 0-3 Flamengo

Being in the starting lineup, Neymar had a period of time dropping very deep, even at times near the center-back area to participate in the launch. However, Santos's attacking efficiency did not improve. In the 85th minute, he left the field in a state of frustration, the match ended in a 0-3 defeat for Santos. After the match, Neymar said the referee "threatened him", reflecting in part the psychological pressure he was experiencing.

The figures show a decline.

The numbers clarify Neymar's current picture: in Serie A 2025/26, he has 3 goals and 0 assists after 15 games. In all competitions this season, his contribution stops at 6 goals and 3 assists. Since the 2022 World Cup, his total number of appearances is only 43, his goal efficiency has dropped sharply since leaving the European environment.

Santos crisis and its consequences on Neymar

Santos have just returned to Serie A this season but are in the relegation zone, two points from safety. They have gone five games without a win and have six challenging games remaining, including against Palmeiras. In that context, Neymar’s contribution has not had a significant impact.

Brazilian football expert Thiago Rabelo (Transfermarkt) commented: “Santos is in a serious financial and management crisis… Almost everything at the club is in trouble.” He also said that Neymar is currently “lacking speed, unable to get past defenders and struggling with both physical and technical skills.”

Tactical angle: When Neymar has to drop deep

Neymar’s frequent dropping deep to receive and play the ball shows Santos’ lack of connection in midfield, and also reflects his own personal adjustment during a period of slowing down. Without the usual bursts into space, the playmaking role becomes a natural choice, but the effectiveness has not lived up to expectations.

The door to the 2026 World Cup is closing

Neymar’s big goal is to play at the 2026 World Cup with Brazil. However, coach Carlo Ancelotti has left him out of the November squad, insisting he will only be called up if he is in top form in a truly competitive environment. Neymar’s contract with Santos expires in December 2025; he is expected to leave if the team is relegated. A return to Europe has been mentioned, but “no major club has shown serious interest”.

However, Brazil captain Casemiro still maintains his faith: “For me, Neymar is an indispensable player in any team… If he regains his form, Neymar will be extremely important for us at the World Cup.”

The deciding factor

• Current form at Santos (goal output, fitness).
• Tournament competition level and role in tactical system.
• Coach Carlo Ancelotti's personnel decisions in the upcoming training sessions.

From Selecao's attacking icon to a forced adaptation, Neymar still has time but not much room for error. Everything now depends on whether he can produce a convincing series of matches in the final stages of the season with Santos.