‘Only a fit Neymar should be at the World Cup’: Cafu says it’s a race against time

MADRID: In a city that breathes football, Monday morning brought a feeling of nostalgia. Three legends of the game, Ruud Gullit, Luis Figo and Cafu, shared one stage inside the iconic Palacio de Cibeles at the Laureus World Sports Awards (LWSA) here.

Nearly an hour ahead of schedule, the buzz in the room reflected the magnitude of the occasion with journalists from across the globe having filled every available seat. When Gullit, Figo and Cafu finally emerged, dressed casually, the trio looked as composed and fit as ever, greeting the crowd with easy smiles. The interaction ranged across topics from the upcoming World Cup to the Champions League final and the evolution of the modern game.

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Naturally, the conversation kicked-off to contenders for the next global crown this summer. And all three legends largely picked a similar group of favourites — France, Argentina, Brazil and Spain.

Figo, widely regarded as one of the finest wingers of his generation, leaned on history and pedigree. “In terms of history, I always think of Brazil, Argentina, France and Spain,” the former Portugal captain said, while also backing his home nation, “I hope Portugal can compete and fight, but those teams have a longer track record.”

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Dutchman Gullit added the Netherlands to the list, saying the Dutch can’t be ignored with a strong footballing legacy.

Attention soon shifted to individual stars, particularly Neymar jr and Cristiano Ronaldo — two icons facing uncertain roles ahead of the World Cup. Cafu was measured in his assessment of Neymar, placing fitness above sentiment. “If he is fit, he should be there. But only if he is fit — it’s a race against time,” he said, referring to the forward’s injury struggles. Neymar hasn’t played for the national team since suffering a knee injury in Oct 2023.

Figo echoed a more assured stance on Ronaldo, backing his inclusion without hesitation. “Of course he deserves to be there. He has been a very successful player for Portugal. No doubt,” he stated.

With the discussion veering towards the decline of Italy on the international stage, Gullit pointed to a loss of identity.

“They forgot their DNA,” he remarked. “Italy was always built from defence. That’s how they won. Now they try to play a different football, and they lose what made them strong. They don’t have good strikers as well,” he said.

The conversation also explored how football itself has transformed. From technology to player conditioning, the modern game bears little resemblance to the one these legends dominated. Gullit highlighted the impact of VAR and advancements in training, noting how players today enjoy longer careers and faster-paced matches.

“The game becomes quicker every year,” he said, reflecting on improved pitches, athleticism and tactical shifts.

“Where once physicality dominated, today’s game favours agility, intelligence and speed,” he added.

As the session drew to a close, the focus shifted to club football and the anticipated Champions League final. Figo expressed strong belief in Paris Saint-Germain, citing their midfield strength as a decisive factor. Gullit, however, took a broader view, suggesting that the true final had already taken place between PSG and Bayern Munich in the semifinals — a clash of attacking philosophies and youthful energy.

(The correspondent is in Madrid as a guest of Laureus World Sports Awards)

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