Zico has proposed a clear test for Neymar Jr. as debate grows over whether the Brazil star should return to the national team ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

When asked about Brazil’s attacking identity and whether Neymar or his current Real Madrid teammate Vinicius Jr. would lead the team at the 2026 World Cup, Mbappe hinted at a transition. “Vini now needs to take another step forward with the national team, but Neymar is Neymar,” Mbappe said. “Neymar is a fantastic player.”

His recent exclusion from friendlies against France and Croatia raised questions, but the forward has made it clear that he remains committed to proving his fitness. The spotlight is on Neymar as he navigates a crucial period at Santos while hoping to secure a spot for Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Neymar broke into the top 10 of Santos club's all-time leading goalscorers this week after scoring twice in a 2-1 win against Vasco da Gama in the Brazilian league. He also gathered more fans on his side in a bid to make Brazil's squad for the World Cup.

Neymar found himself back in headlines across Europe last week after he was brought up as a topic of debate on The Overlap. Gary Neville introduced a new 'Unpopular Opinions' segment, and kicked it off with the following statement: "No Premier League player in history is better than a prime Neymar.

Former England and Manchester United footballer Wayne, on a podcast, stated that he never rated Neymar as a top player, which sparked heavy debates on social media about who is the better player between them.

Brazil announced their squad list and Neymar Jr was left out, but he assured he would do everything possible to return. When was the last time he was called up?

Brazil legend Romario has demanded that Carlo Ancelotti "pay attention" following Neymar's omission from the latest Selecao squad. Romario insisted that the Santos forward remains an indispensable asset for the national team as they ramp up their preparations for the 2026 World Cup.