While he himself aspires to be called up for the 2026 World Cup, Thiago Silva is one of the strongest advocates for Neymar's inclusion in the Brazil national team for the tournament starting in June. The FC Porto defender believes that the debate surrounding the Santos forward's situation "shouldn't even exist." "I think that debate is bad. In fact, I believe it shouldn't exist at all. If he is physically fit and healthy, Neymar must go. That's my position. If I were the coach, he would be there. I remember a Fluminense – Santos match at Maracanã, where he was returning from injury and started on the bench. As soon as he came on, the demeanor of our players changed. It wasn't fear; it was an apprehension about what he could do at any moment. This happens in any team: when you lose a reference like Neymar, Messi, or Vini Júnior, the opponent feels more comfortable. Neymar on the field helps the others," Thiago stated. "He takes responsibility upon himself, allowing his teammates to play more freely. It's important to understand the scenario he creates. He is the top scorer for our national team, surpassing Pelé in goals. Who is Pelé to Brazilians? Sometimes, there isn't even a clear understanding of that… And he has surpassed Pelé. I would call him up in March, so he feels important again. The athlete needs to feel motivated and engaged. (…) We need him because he is different from all the other athletes we have. If you ask Vini, Raphinha, Estêvão, João Pedro… Neymar is the reference for all of them. And it makes the work of those who play alongside him easier. And they say, 'they will have to run for Neymar.' Of course! They will have to run for him; he will decide in our favor. [They ran for a certain Messi in the last World Cup, and we all saw what happened…] Of course," concluded the 41-year-old defender.
FC Porto Defender He Must Go remains central to this story.
FC Porto Defender He Must Go remains central to this story.
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