Hulk isn't helping Neymar make Brazil World Cup squad with a response that'll leave Ancelotti with even more doubts

Brazil biggest selection dilemma ahead of the 2026 World Cup continues to gather momentum, and even those closest to the situation are offering little clarity.

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After Neymar was left out of recent international fixtures, the debate over his place in the squad has only intensified and a recent comment from Hulk has done little to settle it.

Following Atletico Mineiro 1-0 defeat to Santos in the Brasileirao, Hulk was asked directly whether Neymar should be part of Brazil plans for the upcoming tournament. His answer, while measured, offered no endorsement, and spoke volumes.

"I apologise, but I was focused on the match," Hulk said when pressed on the topic. "I'm not the one who has to decide who goes to the World Cup. If he deserves it, he'll go."

In isolation, Hulk comments might appear neutral. But in the context of Brazil current uncertainty, the lack of support stands out.

Neymar remains the country's all-time leading scorer, yet his place in the squad is no longer guaranteed which is something that would have seemed unthinkable just a few years ago.

The 32-year-old hasn't featured for Brazil since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. Although he has returned to club football with Santos , consistency and match fitness remain ongoing concerns.

That uncertainty has left head coach Carlo Ancelotti with a difficult decision. While the Italian has repeatedly kept the door open, he has also made it clear that reputation alone will not be enough.

"He's a great talent, and it's normal that people think he can help us win the next World Cup," Ancelotti told L'Equipe . "He still has two months to show that he has the qualities to play in the next World Cup."

Neymar's race against time

For Neymar , the timeline is tight. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, every performance carries added weight.

His absence from recent friendlies against France and Croatia highlighted Brazil willingness to look beyond established names, even if fans made their feelings clear by chanting for him during the defeat to France in Boston.

Ancelotti , however, dismissed the noise, insisting focus must remain on the players currently involved.

Still, the coach has acknowledged Neymar progress since returning from injury. "After his knee injury, Neymar has made a good comeback; he's scoring goals," he said. "He needs to continue in this direction and improve his fitness. He's on the right track."

Selection dilemma growing louder

Brazil place in Group C alongside Morocco , Haiti and Scotland offers a favourable path on paper, but the squad composition remains far from settled. Neymar experience could prove invaluable, yet selecting him without full match sharpness carries clear risks.

Hulk reluctance to weigh in publicly may reflect the sensitivity of that decision, or simply the reality that even within Brazil footballing circles, there is no clear consensus.

For Ancelotti , the challenge is balancing loyalty with form, legacy with readiness. Neymar talent is unquestioned, but as the countdown to the World Cup continues, the conversation is shifting from what he has achieved to what he can still deliver.