World Cup: Vampeta Criticizes Neymar’s Selection for Brazil Squad, Saying It Was Another Player’s Dream

Former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vampeta has criticized the decision to include Neymar in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Vampeta, who once played for the Brazilian national team, argues that the Santos forward’s selection has denied another player the opportunity to achieve their dream.

Neymar was named in Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti’s final squad list for the tournament.

The former Barcelona star missed Brazil’s 1‑1 draw with Morocco last weekend while nursing a calf injury sustained on 17 May.

Speaking to Brazilian media outlet BNews, Vampeta said of Neymar’s inclusion: “It took the dream away from another player.”

“Neymar played his last match on May 17. In the first 16 days, Neymar has zero chance of playing; he has no condition whatsoever to step in and perform with a grade‑two calf injury,” he added.

“With the World Cup, countries and nations fighting for the title, is Neymar going to be fit to play? No chance whatsoever.”