The prospect of a blockbuster reunion between Neymar Jr. and Lionel Messi at Inter Miami is thought to be a “feasible scenario” in 2026, although the Brazilian could reportedly remain at Santos as his transfer options dwindle ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar finds himself at a crossroads this winter. The 33-year-old will be out of contract at the end of December with just six months to win his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil roster. Yet, if the Italian coach’s claims that his squad in March will effectively be the World Cup group, the clock is ticking even faster.
Since leaving Paris Saint-Germain for Al Hilal in the summer of 2023—the same window that saw Messi move to Miami—the fleet-footed forward has made just 21 competitive starts. For comparison, Messi has racked up 73 starts and as many goals for the Herons over the same period.
The proliferation of muscle injuries which have plagued Neymar in the aftermath of his ACL tear has formed a cloud of caution over the head of any prospective suitor. After spurious claims of interest from the Serie A duo of Inter Milan and Napoli, claim that there is no chance of the former Barcelona star returning to any European club.
Inter Miami “would love” to snap up Neymar, the report claims, while another six-month contract extension at Santos is billed as another option.
Ancelotti is not entirely opposed to calling up players from Brazil’s top flight—Corinthians’ Hugo Souza and Cruzeiro center back Fabricio Bruno both started the most recent international fixture against Japan. Yet, Neymar’s fitness, rather than his club, appears to be the most important factor for Brazil’s coach.
“Neymar can play at his highest level in this team without any problems,” Ancelotti shrugged earlier this month. “When he is in good physical condition, he has the quality to play not only in Brazil but in any team in the world because of his talent.”
