.png)
Neymar has named his favourite two England players, with Harry Kane making the grade alongside Jadon Sancho, who hasn't even been picked for the World Cup.
For many people, Neymar could well earn sporting redemption from the failed attempt to lead Brazil to World Cup glory on home soil eight years ago.
Then he was injured in the quarter final against Colombia, with a back injury, in emotional scenes as he was stretchered off the pitch.
Advert
Brazil were then hammered 7-1 in the semi finals against Germany, with the hosts forgetting to shout 'next goal wins' before Oscar's consolation, in a game voted the greatest World Cup moment.
Once again Brazil are one of the favourites in Qatar, as they look to end their 20 year run without winning the tournament, which is currently their third longest barren run without winning it.
Whilst his team are amongst the favourites, the PSG forward revealed that he's got some other teams on his mind, "The World Cup is full of surprises," he told the Telegraph.
Advert
"You get teams that unexpectedly get very far even in the competition even if many don’t believe in them. But I believe the favourites are Argentina, Germany, Spain and France. I think those four along with Brazil are fully capable of reaching the final."
In response, the 30-year-old was asked about England's chances and which of the Three Lions' players he admired most, with the PSG star picking Sancho.
"I really forgot about England but obviously they have a chance!" Neymar added.
Advert
"I really like [Harry] Kane and [Jadon] Sancho. They’re two incredible players and I have a special love for them because I like players that have their qualities."
The Manchester United winger's move to Old Trafford has not really worked out since August 2021, and most fans would have expected him to be integral to Gareth Southgate's plans by now.
He was in the squad for the Euros in 2021 but wasn't a starter, coming on in the final and becoming one of three players to miss, as Italy were crowned European champions.
His form this season hasn't improved too much and it's no real surprise that Southgate has decided against taking him to Qatar.
Neymar will be hoping to replicate Ronaldo Nazario's redemption curve back from serious injury to World Cup winner, as the legendary striker managed in 2002.
Advert
Whilst the current Brazil star has taken longer, and his injury wasn't as serious, like his predecessor in the Japan and South Korea tournament, there is less pressure on Neymar this time.
Tite's squad has far more excellent attacking players in the team than Luiz Felipe Scolari had to call on when the tournament was in South America.
The former Barcelona man's own form also makes them prime candidates to win the trophy for a sixth time, with his sublime skill even impressing his teammates in training.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Neymar, Football World Cup, Brazil, England, Harry Kane, Jadon Sancho, Manchester United