Recent reports claiming that Neymar has acquired Italian citizenship have sparked massive debates across international media just weeks ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
How the Rumor Started
The frenzy began when journalist Nicolo Schira confidently reported that Neymar had finalized the necessary procedures and was officially granted an Italian passport on May 15, allegedly with the legal assistance of lawyer Emiliano Nitti. This information spread like wildfire across social media platforms, triggering a wave of speculation regarding the former PSG superstar’s future plans.
The Real Reason for the Consulate Visit
However, the reputable Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera quickly stepped in to debunk the claims, revealing a completely different reality. Yes, Neymar did make a personal appearance at the Italian Consulate General in Sao Paulo, but it was not to secure a passport for himself. Instead, he was there primarily to assist with the citizenship paperwork for his two daughters.
Neymar’s girlfriend, Bruna Biancardi, currently holds dual citizenship in both Brazil and Italy. Under Italian law, the children of Italian citizens have the automatic right to claim citizenship, regardless of where they were born in the world. Therefore, the couple’s daughters are fully eligible to complete the process and become Italian citizens.
Could Neymar Ever Play for Italy?
The ambiguity of the initial reports led many fans to mistakenly believe that Neymar was forging a path to play for the Italian national team. However, even in a hypothetical scenario where the 34-year-old forward did obtain an Italian passport, he would still be strictly prohibited from suiting up for the Azzurri.
According to FIFA’s eligibility rules, Neymar has been “cap-tied” to Brazil for over a decade. Because he has played official, competitive senior matches for the Brazilian national team, he has permanently lost the right to change his footballing nationality.
Focusing on the 2026 World Cup
Putting the passport rumors to rest, Neymar remains fully focused on reviving his domestic career at Santos FC following a frustrating, injury-plagued stint with Saudi club Al Hilal. His ultimate goal remains the international stage, as Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly heavily considering calling up the veteran forward for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
