Neymar More Talented Than Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappe – Cafu

Brazilian football legend Cafu has declared that Neymar possesses more natural talent than modern greats Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe, insisting the forward must be the focal point for Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.

The two-time World Cup winner argued that while players like Messi and Ronaldo may have different levels of commitment or discipline, Neymar stands alone when it comes to pure technical ability and skill.

“In my opinion, Neymar is greater than Lionel Messi,” Cafu said. “Technically, he surpasses everyone. Neymar simply has more quality at his disposal. He is superior to Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe.”

Cafu emphasised that Brazil must learn from Argentina’s success by building the team around Neymar, similar to how Argentina structured their squad to support Messi. He contrasted this with Neymar’s career trajectory, noting that the forward spent years carrying an immense burden without the same level of support that previous Brazilian stars enjoyed.

“When Argentina played for Lionel Messi, they won trophies. In 2002, we played for Ronaldo and Rivaldo, while also helping Ronaldinho,” Cafu explained. “Neymar emerged in a generation without that support and was forced to carry the burden alone. For 15 years he carried the whole burden on his own. Today there are players around him who can finally help him.”

The former captain also praised Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti for his ability to manage pressure and maintain discipline within the squad. Cafu recalled an anecdote from Ancelotti’s time in Italy to illustrate the manager’s firm approach.

“There was a player who wasn’t training properly, and Ancelotti gathered the group and said clearly: ‘If you don’t train, there’s no question – you won’t play.’ The team immediately understood the message,” Cafu said.

While praising Ancelotti’s management style, Cafu noted that Neymar’s quality remains undeniable regardless of the situation. “Even when he is not 100%, he decides the game,” he added. “But his attitude within the group is essential.”