Buenos Aires: Football legend Lionel Messi has voiced strong support for his long-time friend Neymar, saying he still belongs among football’s elite and hopes to see him recover in time for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, has not featured for his national team since October 2023 after suffering a serious ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. His fitness struggles have continued after returning to Santos, raising doubts over his availability for the World Cup, even as fans and experts continue to debate his possible comeback.
Messi said that players of Neymar’s calibre should always be considered for the FIFA World Cup, regardless of temporary setbacks. Speaking on the Lo Del Pollo show, he emphasized that the Brazilian star’s quality and influence make him irreplaceable on the global stage.
“We want the best players to be there, and Neymar, no matter his form, will always be one of them,” Messi said. “It would be wonderful to see him at the FIFA World Cup because of what he means to Brazil and to football.”
Messi–Neymar Friendship and FIFA World Cup Bond
The Argentine captain also admitted that his close friendship with Neymar makes it impossible for him to be fully objective. The two stars shared a famous partnership at FC Barcelona and later reunited at Paris Saint-Germain, strengthening a bond that continues to draw attention ahead of the World Cup discussions.
“I can’t be objective. Neymar is a friend,” Messi added. “I’d love for him to be at the FIFA World Cup, for good things to happen to him because he deserves it.”
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Messi further praised Neymar’s personality, calling him naturally charismatic and authentic, qualities that make him a unique figure in world football and a potential game-changer for Brazil in the World Cup.
As anticipation builds, Messi also reflected on Argentina’s chances of defending their title, acknowledging strong competition from Spain, France, and Brazil. While Argentina remain contenders, he stressed that the World Cup is always unpredictable and filled with elite-level challenges.
With uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s recovery, the football world continues to watch closely as the FIFA World Cup approaches, hoping one of its biggest stars can return in time to light up the tournament once again.