French football star Kylian Mbappé has expressed disappointment over Neymar Jr.’s exclusion from Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking to Brazil’s Globo media, Mbappé said he could not imagine a World Cup without Neymar, describing the Brazilian forward as one of the biggest stars in the sport. Neymar was left out of the national team after coach Carlo Ancelotti decided not to compromise on fitness standards, making his participation in the upcoming tournament uncertain.

Mbappé and Neymar played together at Paris Saint-Germain from 2017 to 2023, a period marked by both collaboration and reported tensions. Despite past differences, Mbappé praised Neymar’s talent and influence, calling him a player capable of making a major difference on the field. Neymar has been struggling with injuries and was not included in Brazil’s recent international friendlies, further fueling doubts about his readiness for the World Cup, which begins on June 11.

The final two friendly matches before the tournament are seen as Brazil’s last opportunity to finalize their squad, and Neymar’s absence from these games suggests his World Cup participation remains in serious doubt.