Neymar Jr. is making headlines for all the right reasons. After months of struggles and disappointing performances since his return to Santos, the Brazilian star finally seems to be finding his level again. His stellar display against Juventude (3-1) could well change everything for his national team selection.
Carlo Ancelotti, who’s been tracking every move of the former PSG man, had scouts in the stands to observe the Brazilian number 10. And they weren’t disappointed with the trip.
A perfect night under close watch
Two goals, one assist and 89% pass accuracy. The statistics speak for themselves, but it’s the manner that truly impresses. Neymar first opened the scoring as an opportunist, taking advantage of a howler from the opposing goalkeeper. Then he initiated the second goal with a lightning counter-attack from midfield, serving up Barreal on a plate.
The penalty converted late in the match capped off a gala evening that comes at just the right time. Santos, struggling in Serie A and threatened by relegation, needed their savior. And Neymar answered the call at the perfect moment.
« I have nothing to prove to anyone »
Asked about the presence of Seleção observers in the stands, Neymar displayed total confidence: « I’m happy to have had a good match. I have nothing to prove to anyone, everyone knows my style. I’m available, I feel really good. It depends on them. »
A statement that says a lot about the mindset of the 32-year-old player. Absent from the pitch with Brazil since October 2023 and his injury against Uruguay, Neymar knows time is running out before the 2026 World Cup.
Ancelotti faces a dilemma
The Italian manager must announce his squad for the matches against Chile and Bolivia by the end of the month. Neymar, who’s now stringing together good performances after a difficult start at Santos, is becoming a credible option again.
The question remains whether Ancelotti will be convinced by this resurgence in form. One thing’s for sure: the message has been sent. And judging by tonight’s performance, it’s hard to ignore it much longer.
