Brazil told they have no chance of winning 2026 World Cup without Neymar as Romario makes Pele & Ronaldo comparison

Neymar has announced that the 2026 World Cup will be his last and has vowed to do "everything" he can to make the Brazil squad. The superstar has endured a nightmare time with injuries in recent years and is facing an uncertain future. His contract with Saudi side Al-Hilal is due to expire in 2025 and it remains to be seen where he will be playing his football next season.

Brazil are making hard work of World Cup qualifying and currently sit fifth in the 10-nation CONCACAF group. The top six will qualify automatically for the tournament where, Brazil will hope to improve on recent showings. The five-time winners have not been past the quarter-final stage since they last won the title back in 2002 in South Korea/Japan.

Romario believes that Brazil's only hope of glory in 2026 is with Neymar in the team to inspire the Selecao. He told the Charla podcast: "Brazil only has a chance of winning the next World Cup if it's with Neymar. In 62, Brazil played for Garrincha, in 70 for Pelé, in 94 for Romário and in 2002 for Ronaldo. In 2026, if they don't play for Neymar, they won't win."

Brazil are back in World Cup qualifying action in March against Colombia and Argentina, although it remains to be seen if Neymar will be involved. The forward continues to work hard on his fitness at Saudi side Al-Hilal as he bids to make his latest comeback from injury.