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At an event in Belo Horizonte last week, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made a light-hearted remark about Neymar, calling him a “work-from-home player.” The joke, however, did not sit well with many. In Brazil, Neymar’s inclusion in the Selecao squad is no laughing matter. The debate over Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to call up a half-fit, possibly past-his-prime forward has been raging for months.

Lula’s comment likely stemmed from Neymar’s visible support of former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro. Yet, even Brazilians who disagree with Neymar’s political stance are hoping desperately that he will be fit in time for Wednesday’s vital World Cup clash against Scotland in Miami.

The early signs on that front are promising. Although Neymar missed Brazil’s first two group matches in North America, he appears to have fully recovered from the calf injury that had threatened his fourth World Cup campaign. He is now expected to be named among the substitutes for a match Brazil need to win decisively to secure top spot in Group C.

‘Extraordinary history’

Lucas Paquetá emphasised that the entire Brazil squad was thrilled to see Neymar back in training earlier this week.

“He’s a crucial player for the national team,” the Flamengo attacking midfielder told reporters. “He has an extraordinary history with this jersey and can still contribute a lot. We hope he’ll be available very soon to help the team.”

Yet, at this stage, it remains uncertain what Neymar can realistically contribute on the pitch.

Only 45 matches in three years

Brazil’s all-time top scorer seems to be in the squad primarily because of his “extraordinary history.” Over the last three years—let alone the past three months—he hasn’t done enough to justify selection based on form alone.

Since his last outing for Brazil against Uruguay on October 18, 2023, Neymar has managed just 45 professional appearances, scoring 17 goals. To put that into context, forward João Pedro, controversially left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad, surpassed both those numbers last season alone—netting 20 goals in 50 matches for Chelsea.

Can he spark a Messi-like effect?

Neymar is still only 34, but he’s hardly a “young 34.” Lionel Messi was a year older when he inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar four years ago. While Neymar’s natural ability may rival his former Barcelona teammate and close friend, their off-field discipline could not be more different. That contrast explains why Messi continues to defy expectations at 38, while Neymar’s career trajectory has plateaued.

Still, even Neymar’s presence—whether on the pitch or the bench—could lift his teammates and have a Messi-like impact on the group’s morale.

Still a beloved figure

Despite his controversies and occasional lapses in professionalism, Neymar remains immensely popular among Brazilian fans and, more importantly, within the Selecao squad. Casemiro was among those pushing for his recall to the World Cup side, despite Neymar having played only eight Serie A matches for Santos this year. Vinícius Júnior is another who continues to look up to him.

“Having him with the group means a lot to all of us,” said the Real Madrid star. “He’s my idol and has always supported me. I hope he returns for the next match against Scotland and helps us throughout the World Cup.”

Help badly needed

There’s no denying that Brazil could use some inspiration. Though Ancelotti’s men top Group C, their performances in the first two games have been far from convincing. The Selecao were fortunate not to trail by more than one goal before Vinícius produced a moment of brilliance to equalise against Morocco in their opener. While Brazil improved as the match went on, their display in New Jersey gave little confidence about their chances of claiming a sixth World Cup title.

The pattern persisted against Haiti. Brazil’s 3-0 victory flattered them, with Matheus Cunha offering an upgrade on Igor Thiago in attack. Yet the reliance on Vinícius to create chances was again evident, even against one of the tournament’s weakest opponents.

A chance awaits

Given these struggles, the calls for Neymar’s inclusion have grown louder. Following Raphinha’s injury during the Haiti fixture, Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar would be available for selection against Scotland. With Raphinha now ruled out until at least the Round of 16, there’s a genuine possibility Neymar could even start in the Round of 32—provided he gets some minutes in Miami.

That, of course, depends on his fitness after years of recurring injuries. But Brazil will gladly take the risk.

Neymar may have been a part-time player since the last World Cup, but for many Brazilians, his past exploits remain a beacon of hope that he can once again provide the magic their team sorely needs.