Neymar, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, has not played for his national team since October 2023 after suffering a serious knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The forward ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, an injury that kept him out for a long time and raised doubts about his future fitness.

Since returning to his boyhood club Santos, Neymar has continued to face physical setbacks. This year, he has made only 12 appearances in all competitions after playing 28 matches in 2025, leaving many fans wondering if he will be fit enough to represent Brazil on football’s biggest stage.

Speaking during an interview on the Lo Del Pollo show, Messi made it clear that football would be better with Neymar at the tournament.

“We want the best players to be there, and Neymar will always be one of them no matter his form,” Messi said.

The Argentine captain said Neymar’s presence would not only strengthen Brazil but also add excitement to the competition for football lovers around the world.

“It would be wonderful to see him at the World Cup because of what he means for Brazil and for football. I hope he can be there,” he added.

Messi and Neymar built a close friendship during their successful years together at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017, where they formed one of football’s most feared attacking trios alongside Luis Suárez. The pair later reunited at Paris Saint-Germain from 2021 to 2023.

Because of that bond, Messi admitted it is hard for him to judge Neymar without emotion.

“I can’t be objective because Neymar is my friend. I want good things to happen to him because he deserves it as a person. I really hope he makes it,” Messi said.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner also praised Neymar’s personality, describing him as genuine and fearless in the way he lives his life.

“He has a special charisma. He does not pretend to be someone else. He lives naturally and does what feels right for him without worrying too much about what people say,” Messi explained.

Looking ahead to Argentina’s title defence, Messi said the World Cup will be highly competitive. While hopeful for Argentina’s chances, he admitted other nations are currently showing stronger form.

He named Spain, France, and Brazil as some of the biggest threats.

“The World Cup is always difficult because every team has quality. We must believe in ourselves, as Argentines always do, but we also have to accept that some teams are performing better right now,” he said.

As the countdown to the tournament continues, football fans around the world will now wait to see whether Neymar can recover in time and once again shine on the biggest stage.