Inter Milan Denies Neymar Interest Amid Transfer Rumors; Former Coach Emerson Leão Critiques Player's Fitness Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Neymar aims for a European transfer ahead of the 2026 World Cup amid strong skepticism about his physical condition, with Inter Milan denying interest and Emerson Leão criticizing his fitness.
- • Inter Milan's football director denies any interest in Neymar's transfer.
- • Neymar is currently contracted with Santos until the end of 2025 and is managing a thigh injury.
- • Emerson Leão criticizes Neymar's physical condition and doubts his ability to perform at the 2026 World Cup.
- • Transfer discussions for Neymar's move to Europe may occur in January 2026.
Key details
Brazilian football star Neymar is reportedly interested in a return to European football before the 2026 World Cup as part of his preparations for the tournament. Potential clubs mentioned include Inter Milan and Napoli. However, Inter Milan’s football director, Piero Ausilio, explicitly denied any interest in signing Neymar, stating, "Neymar at Inter? Imagine, that’s nonsense. We never spoke and he was never offered... It’s rubbish," in an interview with Corriere dello Sport. Napoli was also reported to have considered Neymar in the past but ultimately chose Kevin de Bruyne.
Currently, Neymar is contracted to Santos until the end of 2025. Since his return earlier this year, he has played 21 matches, scoring six goals and providing three assists. Despite this, Neymar is managing a rectus femoris muscle injury in his right thigh, which may impact his form.
In a critical assessment, Emerson Leão, former Brazilian national team player and coach, expressed serious doubts about Neymar's capability to lead Brazil in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Speaking to CNN Esportes S/A, Leão highlighted that Neymar’s physical condition has deteriorated significantly, affecting his performance on the field. Leão remarked, "He knows what he wants to do, but he can't do it anymore," reflecting on Neymar's diminished athleticism despite maintaining his technical skills. Leão lamented that Neymar failed to heed early advice to better manage his fitness, calling the situation "a loss not just for Neymar, but also for the fans and Brazilian football."
The contrasting perspectives present a nuanced picture: Neymar is motivated to challenge himself in Europe again, but skepticism remains about his physical ability to perform at the highest level. While transfer discussions with European clubs may take place in January 2026, insider denials and injury concerns temper expectations.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, this ongoing debate about Neymar’s role and readiness continues to engage Brazilian football fans and experts alike.