Casemiro Calls Neymar Brazil’s Most Decisive Player Ahead of World Cup

Casemiro’s endorsement of Neymar as Brazil’s most decisive player has reignited the debate around the forward’s role and future in the national team. As the Selecao intensify their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, Casemiro insists that Neymar’s unique skills and experience make him irreplaceable—despite ongoing concerns over his fitness and recent absences from the squad.

Casemiro on Neymar’s Unique Impact in Brazil’s Squad

Casemiro, a stalwart midfielder for Manchester United and Brazil, has publicly ranked Neymar above some of world football’s biggest names, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Karim Benzema. “I had the pleasure of playing with greats—Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime, Modric, Kroos, Benzema—but Neymar is simply different,” Casemiro told Globo. He emphasized that Neymar can decide games single-handedly, calling him “by far the best” when fully fit and focused.

Casemiro has known Neymar since their early teenage years and praised his work ethic and commitment. “You can’t achieve what Neymar has just by talent alone; it takes dedication and hard work,” he added.

Neymar’s Ongoing Fitness Struggles and Absence from Brazil

Despite his undeniable talent, Neymar’s fitness remains a significant concern. Since suffering a severe knee ligament injury against Uruguay in October 2023, Neymar has struggled to regain full fitness. Although he briefly rejoined the national team setup in early 2025, recurring issues have kept him sidelined. Most recently, he was left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad, as the coach emphasized the need for Neymar to prove his consistent availability before a return.

Neymar’s latest club appearance came as a substitute in Santos’ 1-1 draw with Fortaleza, signaling a cautious step forward in his recovery. Ancelotti continues to praise Neymar’s ability but insists the door to the national team remains open only if he displays regular form and fitness at club level.

Why Casemiro Believes Brazil Must Build Around Neymar

Casemiro argues that Brazil should take a tactical approach similar to Argentina’s strategy with Lionel Messi during their 2022 World Cup triumph. “If I have to cover extra ground so Neymar can create or score, I’ll do it,” he said. He pointed out that decisive players like Neymar can break tight games open in a moment, referencing Neymar’s crucial goal against Croatia in the last World Cup quarter-finals.

Casemiro believes that, with proper tactical adjustment, Neymar’s presence can maximize Brazil’s potential. “Argentina built the team around Messi, and we should do the same with Neymar—he’s irresistible when at his best,” Casemiro stated, underlining the value of nurturing such exceptional talent.

Ancelotti’s Influence and Brazil’s World Cup Ambitions

Casemiro also highlighted Carlo Ancelotti’s role in uniting and improving the Brazil squad. The Italian coach’s ability to foster cohesion across the team and staff has been vital, according to Casemiro. With a talented core group including Alisson, Marquinhos, Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Jr., and Rodrygo, Casemiro is optimistic about Brazil’s prospects. “We have players who could play for any team in the world. With Neymar, we have an extra edge,” he said.

Upcoming friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia will provide Ancelotti with opportunities to refine Brazil’s tactical shape and test Neymar’s readiness, assuming the forward can regain form and fitness with Santos.

Opinion: Should Brazil Rely on Neymar in 2026?

It is clear that Casemiro sees Neymar as the heartbeat of Brazil’s World Cup ambitions and believes the team should be structured to maximize his influence. While Neymar’s fitness is understandably a concern, few players possess his ability to turn a match on its head. If he proves his fitness, building the team around him could be Brazil’s best shot at recapturing World Cup glory. For fans eager to follow these developments and more, visit for more news.