Romario has delivered a blunt response to Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to leave Neymar out, insisting Brazil cannot afford to overlook its biggest star ahead of the World Cup.
The comments come as debate intensifies over Neymar’s fitness and whether he should be included despite recent injury concerns.
Romario’s stance makes one thing clear: talent should outweigh everything else.
Romario slams Carlo Ancelotti’s Neymar omission decision
Romario reacted strongly to Neymar being left out, making his position clear on what Brazil should prioritise.
“A star player has to play. The national team is the place for the best and most talented. Preparation for the World Cup lasts a month, sufficient time for an athlete to recover, both physically and technically, to gain match rhythm, and to build chemistry with the group,” Romario said.
He added: “Everyone knows it, but it is always necessary to repeat it: it is better to have a star player like Neymar, even when he is not at 100%, than to call up any other player.”
The argument centres on experience and quality, suggesting that even a partially fit Neymar offers more than alternatives.
It also directly challenges the decision-making behind Brazil’s current selection approach.
Romario warns Brazil cannot waste Neymar’s talent before World Cup
Romario continued by stressing that Neymar’s ability should make him an automatic consideration regardless of circumstances.
“Talent must not be wasted. And a coach can never do without it. I still hold out hope of seeing Neymar prove on the pitch, in the Brazilian Championship, that he deserves to be on the final list and bring home the sixth world title,” he continued.
Romario concluded: “I want to make it clear that while I am fully in favour of Neymar going, I will continue to support the pursuit of the ‘Hexa’ even if he doesn’t. But the message is clear: Pay attention, mister!”
The message adds pressure on Ancelotti, with one of Brazil’s greatest players publicly questioning the decision.
It also keeps Neymar at the centre of the conversation as the World Cup approaches. For now, the debate reflects a wider divide between form, fitness, and undeniable talent.
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