Shocking words from Pelé's former manager about Neymar: If he misses the World Cup, he might quit football

"I dare say, knowing him personally since childhood, that if he wasn't nominated for the World Cup due to injury, or if he were to get injured before the World Cup and couldn't play, it would hurt him so much, both personally and psychologically, that he would be capable of quitting football altogether," Borbély told the SITA agency.

According to Borbély, Neymar is currently the biggest personality in Brazilian football. "Neymar is such a massive superstar in Brazilian football that currently, no one can match his stature in any aspect," he stated.

Although Neymar hasn't played as many matches for the Brazilian national team in recent years due to health issues and injuries as in previous periods, his importance to the squad remains immense, according to Borbély. Beyond his footballing quality, his presence at the tournament could also be crucial for team morale and cohesion in the locker room.

Borbély also described Neymar as an irreplaceable leader for the national team. "A healthy Neymar is an irreplaceable leader for Brazil; moreover, he has matured and grown as a person. He adores football, and it means everything to him," he added.

His experience, authority, and standing among his teammates could, according to several observers, help unite the Brazilian team during a demanding tournament. The national team still lacks a personality who could naturally assume Neymar's role both on and off the pitch.

Brazil's chances of winning the title remain high, he believes, but the outcome could also be the opposite. "However, knowing the mentality of these players and the reality very well, I see Brazil's chances as either winning their sixth title or completely imploding," Borbély concluded.

However, on Saturday, head coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that Brazil would have to do without Neymar in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Morocco, and likely throughout the entire group stage.