Brazil coach, Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that Neymar is unhappy with his limited playing time at the 2026 World Cup but insists the veteran forward has handled the situation with professionalism and remains a positive presence within the squad.

Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer has made just one substitute appearance at his fourth World Cup so far, coming on for the final 14 minutes of Brazil’s 3-0 group-stage win over Scotland.

The 34-year-old, who returned from a calf injury ahead of the tournament, has largely watched from the bench as Ancelotti leans on a younger, in-form attacking unit featuring the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Endrick. Neymar is again expected to be among the substitutes for Brazil’s Round of 16 clash against Norway on Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

Speaking to Brazilian newspaper Folha de Sao Paulo in an interview published on Friday, Ancelotti acknowledged that Neymar is frustrated with his reduced role but praised his conduct behind the scenes. “He’s not satisfied, but he’s behaving very well. He’s training very well. Neymar is very respectful, kind, and loved by his teammates,” the Italian said, adding that Neymar remains an important figure in the squad because of his quality and humility.

Ancelotti also moved to ease any doubts over Neymar’s fitness, confirming that the forward is now capable of playing a full match should the situation call for it. “The important thing is that he can play. No one knows how long he will play. He has the experience to manage his minutes in the game and the tempo. When I see that the team needs him, I’ll put him on,” he said. Brazil have never beaten Norway in their history, having drawn two and lost two of their four previous meetings, and have not defeated a European side in a World Cup knockout match since winning the tournament in 2002, a record Ancelotti’s side will be hoping to change on Sunday.

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