- Soccer. Did Messi reach 900 goals before Cristiano Ronaldo? The battle for 1,000 goals has only just begun
- Soccer. How Harry Kane made history by matching Messi's pace in the Champions League
This week, Neymar received disappointing news after being left out of the Brazil national team squad announced by Carlo Ancelotti, who has made it clear that the former FC Barcelona star will not be called up unless he is at 100% fitness.
It quickly became one of the biggest football news stories worldwide, and now "Ney" has received unexpected backing from one of the most in-form players in Europe.
Raphinha reacts to Neymar's Brazil absence
Following Barcelona's 7-2 win over Newcastle United to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals, Raphinha was asked about Neymar's omission from the Brazil squad.
In an interview with TNT after the match, Raphinha said: "I hope to see him (Neymar at the World Cup 2026). He's an exceptional player-no one doubts his quality on the field or what he can do. He can decide a game, even a World Cup. As a fan, both on and off the pitch, I hope to see Neymar wearing the Brazil national team jersey again and playing the World Cup with us."
Neymar has not played for the Brazil national team since 2023, when he suffered a serious injury against Uruguay in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers for 2026. Ongoing injury problems have kept him out of the Seleção, and Ancelotti has not included him in any squad since taking charge in May 2025.
Many fans believe the Brazilian superstar still deserves a place in the team, but it remains to be seen whether he will be included in the final squad for what could be his last FIFA World Cup.