Casemiro 'defends' Neymar for his lifestyle

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has come to the defense of his compatriot Neymar Jr., stressing that the Santos striker remains "the best, by far" when he is physically and mentally fit.

As Brazil continues preparations for the 2026 World Cup, the former Real Madrid player has suggested that the Seleção project should be built around Neymar - just as Argentina did with Lionel Messi in 2022.

"When he's fit, he's the best. By far. Everyone has their own lifestyle, and he has his own, but that doesn't make him any less of a professional. I know how much he works, how dedicated he is, and how much he loves football," Casemiro said in an interview with Globo.

Neymar's absence from Carlo Ancelotti's recent training sessions has raised concerns.

The striker, who suffered a knee ligament injury against Uruguay in October 2023, has gone nearly a year without representing Brazil.

However, he recently returned to the pitch with Santos in a 1-1 draw against Fortaleza, but questions over his fitness persist.

The Italian coach has stressed that Neymar remains a key figure, but must "show continuity and be ready" to reclaim his place in the national team.

"We haven't closed the door, but he has to play and prove that he can compete at the highest level," Ancelotti added.

Casemiro, however, believes his teammate needs special treatment: "You have to adapt the team for him, like Argentina did with Messi. If I have to run more for him to create and score, I will do it without hesitation. Neymar is the type of player who can change a match in a second."

The Brazilian midfielder, one of the leaders of the "Canarinhas", did not hesitate to place Neymar above some of the biggest stars with whom he has shared the dressing room.

"I played with Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, Marcelo and Bale - Ballon d'Or winners. But Neymar is at that level, maybe even higher in some aspects," he said.

Casemiro also recalled his early encounters with the Santos talent: "I've known him since he was 12 years old. He's always been special, always decisive. He can decide a match with a single play, and that's not taught - you're born with it."

With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, the debate over Neymar's role remains open. While Ancelotti remains cautious, Casemiro is adamant: "Brazil needs Neymar. When he's healthy, no one comes close to him."