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Messi backs Neymar for World Cup return

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Messi Backs Neymar For World Cup Return

By IANS News May 09, 2026 • 09:16 AM View: 413

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi believes Neymar still belongs among football's elite and said he hopes the Brazil forward returns in time for next month's FIFA World Cup.

Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, has not played for his country since October 2023, when he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.

His injury problems have continued since returning to boyhood club Santos, limiting him to 12 appearances across all competitions this year after he played 28 matches in 2025.

TAGS World Cup Buenos Aires Lionel Messi FIFA World Cup Lo Del Pollo Paris Saint Copa America

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