Neymar has expressed dissatisfaction with his limited minutes at the 2026 World Cup but has maintained a professional attitude within the Brazil squad, coach Carlo Ancelotti said on July 3, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The 34-year-old forward has made just one substitute appearance so far, playing 14 minutes in Brazil’s 3-0 group stage win over Scotland on June 30 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Neymar arrived in the tournament carrying a right calf injury but is now fit to play a full match, Ancelotti confirmed [1, 2, 3, 4]. The coach said playing time will depend on the team’s needs and Neymar’s experience in managing his minutes. ‘‘He’s not satisfied, but he’s behaving very well. He’s training very well. Neymar is very respectful, kind, and loved by his teammates,’’ Ancelotti said [1]. He added, ‘‘The important thing is that he can play. No one knows how long he will play. He has the experience to manage his minutes in the game and the tempo. When I see that the team needs him, I’ll put him on.’’
Brazil faces Norway in the World Cup last-16 knockout stage on July 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey [1, 2, 3, 4]. Brazil has never beaten Norway in their four previous meetings, which included two draws and two losses [1, 2, 3, 4]. The team has also not defeated a European side in a World Cup knockout match since 2002 [1, 2, 3, 4].
Ancelotti described Norway as ‘‘a very well-organised team defensively’’ with a coach who is ‘‘doing a very good job in that area.’’ He expressed confidence in Brazil’s readiness for all scenarios during the Norway game. ‘‘It’s always difficult, but we are confident we will play a good game. We may concede a goal, but we are prepared to react,’’ Ancelotti said [1].
The Brazil squad continues training ahead of their knockout match with Norway, with Ancelotti expected to finalize his lineup and Neymar’s role closer to kickoff.
