With just days to go before Carlo Ancelotti announces Brazil's World Cup squad, the football world is buzzing with anticipation. The final 26-man list, set to be revealed in less than a week, is packed with tough choices—and injuries have only made things more complicated. Key defender Eder Militao is already ruled out, while rising star Estevao faces an uphill battle to recover in time for the tournament.

But no debate is hotter than the one surrounding Neymar. His talent is undeniable, but questions about his fitness, match rhythm, and role have turned his potential call-up into a major talking point across Brazil. Now, one of the country's most respected voices has weighed in.

Casemiro, the Manchester United midfield general, shared his thoughts in a candid chat with Rio Ferdinand on the "Rio Meets" podcast. His answer was both honest and measured. "Yes, I'd call him up," Casemiro said. "But you don't play him every game. That's not perfect for me. When the game is tight, 0-0, and you need a special goal or a special assist—that's when you bring him on. He changes the game, and we don't have another player like that right now. But it's up to Ancelotti."

Casemiro's perspective offers a potential compromise. Instead of expecting Neymar to carry Brazil for 90 minutes every match, he could be deployed as a game-changing weapon in crucial moments. The former Barcelona star has already made his case on the pitch, scoring in Santos' 2-0 victory over RB Bragantino last weekend. With four goals and one assist in his last nine appearances for the club, Neymar is proving he still has the magic touch.

Reports suggest Neymar is already on Brazil's 55-man pre-list, keeping the door open for a final squad spot. As the countdown to the announcement continues, Casemiro's view might just be the smartest take: take the superstar, but use him wisely. After all, in a tournament where one moment can define a nation's dreams, having a player who can deliver that moment is worth its weight in gold.