"It's as simple as that" - Romario sends warning to Brazil over Neymar as they eye 2026 World Cup glory

Brazil legend Romario had some tough words for the current national team squad. He claimed that Selecao won't lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup if they don't play for Neymar.

The Canaries are the most successful nation at the World Cups with five titles, but their last win came way back in 2002. Even with Neymar in the squad in the last three World Cup tournaments, Brazil have fallen short in their title ambitions.

Ever since he broke into the national team, the former Barcelona ace has long been touted as the man who could guide them to their long awaited sixth World Cup crown.

With 79 goals, he is already the most prolific player in Brazil's history, but hasn't been able to steer his side to a major glory yet. A terrible injury record and some on-field antics have kept him from truly being hailed as a legend with the national team.

Yet, his compatriot Romario, also a 1994 World Cup winner with Brazil, feels Neymar is still the difference-maker for the side, and the players must play for him to stand a chance of going all the way in 2026.

Speaking to the press, the 58-year-old said (quoted by Planeta do Futebol on X):

"If they don't play for Neymar, Brazil won't be World Cup champions. It's as simple as that. As long as they don't understand that he's the difference maker, they'll continue to f ******."

For all his exploits, Neymar has scored only eight goals in three World Cups, of which just three have come in the knockout stages. If he were to guide Brazil back to World Cup glory, it's imperative for the forward to attain top form and be in top shape.

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2026 FIFA World Cup could be Neymar's last chance to win it

By the time the 2026 FIFA World Cup rolls around, Neymar will be 34, and that could hence be his last chance to win it for Brazil. So far, he has seen one semi-final exit, and two quarter-final finishes with the national team in the competition.

Although the forward is not past his best yet, a poor fitness record has kept him from achieving greatness in his career. Also, in his post-Barcelona period, Neymar's glamorous, partying lifestyle has drawn enormous flak from all quarters.

Indeed, his only silverware with Brazil so far has been the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, having missed their 2019 Copa America triumph due to an injury. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Neymar will have one last chance to bring the sixth cup home.