“Messi defends Neymar for the World Cup despite injury.”

Lionel Messi issues a powerful warning: Neymar is INDISPENSABLE for Brazil in this summer’s World Cup!

Amid the doubts surrounding Neymar’s physical condition, iconic Argentine star Lionel Messi did not hesitate to give an overwhelming vote of confidence to his former Barcelona teammate. Despite the concerns plaguing the Brazilian forward’s preparation, Messi firmly states that Neymar will be a central figure in the Brazilian national team for the 2024 World Cup.

Neymar, the all-time top scorer for Brazil with 79 goals, has faced a turbulent period since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. His prolonged absence from the national team and his struggle to regain form since returning to Santos last year have raised questions about his participation in the most important tournament in world football. However, Brazil’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, keeps the door open, stating that the forward will be called up if he is 100% fit, emphasizing in April that Neymar has just two months to prove his readiness.

Messi does not limit himself to empty praise. On the popular show “Lo del Pollo,” the Argentine was clear and direct: “We want the best players in the World Cup, and Neymar, regardless of his current form, will always be one of them.” The captain of the 2022 World Cup-winning Argentina further highlighted Neymar’s unique impact on football and Brazil, reinforcing the idea that his presence would be a must-see for fans around the world: “It would be wonderful to see him in the World Cup, for what he represents for Brazil and for football.”

But Messi is not stopping here. Looking ahead to the future, the South American genius has placed Brazil at the top of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place from June 11 to July, in three host countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Alongside Spain and France, Messi sees the Brazilian national team as an unstoppable force: “I still believe that Brazil is always a strong contender and has the players necessary to fight for the title in any major competition.”

The message is clear: Neymar is far from being out of the race, and Brazil is not willing to give up its greatest talent. This year’s World Cup promises to be an epic battle — and Neymar, backed by Messi, could be the key to securing the fifth championship title. The countdown has already begun, and the football world is eagerly awaiting confirmation that the Brazilian phenomenon will be on the field to shine.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.