New York: Brazilian football icon Romário has delivered a candid assessment of Neymar’s standing in the national team, asserting that the forward no longer commands an automatic spot in Brazil's starting eleven.

Speaking in an interview with TNT Sports BR, the 1994 World Cup winner addressed the ongoing tactical evolution of the Seleção under manager Carlo Ancelotti during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Romário noted that while the current starting lineup is firmly established without the veteran forward, Neymar remains a luxury option off the bench.

"Today, Neymar has no spot in the Brazilian National Team's starting lineup." Romário stated to TNT Sports BR. "But of course, depending on the moment and the match, Neymar still has his relevance on the team."

A Changing of the Guard

Romário’s comments come amidst a major shift in the hierarchy of Brazilian football. For over a decade, Neymar has been the undisputed talisman of the national team. He stands as Brazil's all-time men's top goalscorer with 79 goals, having eclipsed Pelé's long-standing milestone in 2023.

However, severe fitness struggles—including a long-term knee injury sustained in late 2023 and limited club appearances for Santos—have severely disrupted his international momentum. A report by Sky Sports highlighted that Ancelotti's decision to include the 34-year-old in the 2026 World Cup squad was heavily scrutinised, operating more on "faith than reason" given his lack of competitive match sharpness.

In his absence from the starting fold, Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has stepped up as the country’s premier figure. Vinícius Júnior has been carrying the offensive torch for the Seleção at the tournament, matching goalscoring feats of icons like Ronaldo Nazário and Romário himself by scoring in three consecutive World Cup fixtures.

The Super-Sub Role

Despite losing his starting status, Neymar's influence remains palpable. Ancelotti has utilised the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star as an impactful substitute. During recent tournament appearances in the United States, his introductions from the dugout were met with immense ovations from the crowd, highlighting his lingering star power.

Ancelotti's tactical calculus appears to mirror Romário's view: keeping Neymar inside the camp to alleviate pressure on younger talents while retaining a world-class game-changer for pivotal moments in the knockout rounds. Whether Neymar can accept a secondary role to lift the elusive trophy remains the defining narrative of Brazil's campaign. Brazil qualified for the Round of 16 by beating Japan in a 2-1 thriller. They will meet Norway on July 06.