Kaká reacted to Carlo Ancelotti’s decision not to start Neymar in a World Cup knockout match. The former Ballon d’Or spoke with a measured tone, first emphasizing his trust in the Italian coach’s work, while also suggesting that this particular choice wasn’t the best given the match context and the player’s profile.
In his comments, Kaká recalled his direct experience with Ancelotti and stressed the coach’s usual thought process behind his decisions. However, he nuanced this view by considering that Neymar’s absence from the starting lineup affected Brazil’s dynamics, especially in a match where managing difficult moments and creativity in crucial areas were key.
“I know Carlo better than most because I played under him for many years. He’s one of the greatest coaches in football history, and every decision he makes has a reason behind it. But in my opinion, he got this one wrong.
The biggest mistake was leaving Neymar on the bench. When you have a player of that quality, fully fit and available, it’s hard to justify not starting him in a World Cup knockout match. These are the moments made for players like Neymar.
The match called for a player who could calm things down, take responsibility, and create something special. Even during the limited time he spent on the pitch, we immediately saw the difference. Brazil looked more composed, more dangerous, and the stadium reacted as soon as he came on, because everyone knows what he’s capable of.
Every great national team is built around its biggest stars. Neymar isn’t just Brazil’s most talented player; he’s also a leader whose presence inspires confidence in everyone around him. Vinícius Júnior is an exceptional player with an incredible future ahead, but having Neymar alongside him makes the entire attack more dangerous and gives him more freedom.
We’ll never know for sure what would have happened, but I truly believe that if Neymar had started, or at least come on much earlier, Brazil would have had a much better chance of winning the match. In games of such magnitude, you have to trust your best players from the kickoff.”
Kaka on Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to leave Neymar on the bench:
🗣“I know Carlo better than most because I played under him for many years. He’s one of the greatest coaches in football history, and every decision he makes has a reason behind it. But in my opinion, he got this… pic.twitter.com/8tdg6ipP84
— Sage (@Sage_FCB) July 6, 2026
Beyond this statement, Kaká highlights a central idea: in high-stakes matches, starting choices can shift a team’s overall balance. According to him, Neymar’s impact, even coming off the bench, showed just how much his presence influences Brazil’s rhythm and offensive projection.
This stance fits into an ongoing debate about managing big stars in the national team. It contrasts the logic of tactical discipline and physical management with the immediate need to showcase players who can change the game.
