When Stars Align: Mbappe Says World Cup Isn’t Possible Without Neymar
26 March 2026
Mbappe on Neymar and the Brazil-France clash
Mbappe, the star now shining for Real Madrid, weighs in on Neymar's absence from Brazil's squad under coach Carlo Ancelotti and the prospects of Neymar returning for the 2026 World Cup.
Mbappe and Neymar played together for six years at Paris Saint-Germain before Neymar moved to Al Hilal in 2023, and a year later the French forward joined Real Madrid.
Mbappe is set to lead France tonight in a friendly against Brazil, with Neymar absent, a decision sparking debate ahead of the tournament.
Ancelotti cited fitness as the reason for Neymar's omission, but he did not close the door on a potential return to the Selecao for the 2026 World Cup this summer.
In an interview with Globo Esporte, Mbappe said: "The World Cup is a tournament of stars. All the stars are present, and Neymar is one of the greatest."
He added: "I can't imagine a World Cup without Neymar. But in the end, I can't go against my former coach Ancelotti; I must respect his decision."
On Brazil's star balance, Mbappe stated: "I think both Neymar and Vinicius Junior can lead Brazil; Vinicius now needs to take another step with the national team, but Neymar is Neymar. He’s a fantastic player."
Despite concerns about Neymar's fitness ahead of the World Cup, Mbappe expressed confidence that his former teammate will be back in time.
He continued: "To me, Neymar is a difference-maker. I played with him, learned a lot from him. We'll see how he is, but I know him well; he will be ready and present."
Regarding the match itself, Mbappe refused to say France is the outright favorite against Brazil, saying: "It’s impossible to be the favorite against a team bearing five stars on its jersey."
He concluded: "Brazil is the greatest force in world football. This is our chance to show our capabilities and prepare to win the 2026 World Cup."
Punchline 1: If Neymar doesn’t show up, Brazil’s lineup will still shine—the dressing room will need sunglasses to handle all those stars.
Punchline 2: If this game is a concert, Neymar is the headliner and France the encore—either way, the trophy ends up on stage.
