Ancelotti's Shocking Move Crushes Neymar's World Cup Dreams for 2026
Although Neymar has shown improved performance, the Brazilian superstar was not selected by Carlo Ancelotti for the March international fixtures.
The attacker, who made his comeback from a knee problem in February, has been impressive for Santos. During his previous four matches for his hometown team, Neymar contributed two goals and two assists across 315 minutes of action.
However, this performance wasn't sufficient for Ancelotti, who excluded the 34-year-old from his roster for Brazil's forthcoming international matches against France and Croatia. The Italian coach has consistently omitted Neymar from every selection since assuming control of the Seleção in May.
This choice undermines Neymar's aspirations of participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With merely three months remaining before the tournament begins across the United States, Canada and Mexico, Brazil's record goalscorer has limited chances left to demonstrate his worth.
Ancelotti Explains Neymar's Absence
Ancelotti Explains Neymar's Absence
Similar to previous occasions, Ancelotti was forthright when addressing inquiries about Neymar's situation with Brazil.
"Neymar hasn't reached 100% fitness and that's why he's not included in the squad," Ancelotti stated on Monday. This direct comment followed the forward's absence from Santos' 2–2 tie with Mirassol, a match the Brazil coach witnessed firsthand.
"Neymar isn't at his full potential physically. When he achieves 100% fitness, he could be selected. Neymar might still make the World Cup. Neymar must continue training, competing, displaying his abilities and staying in excellent physical shape."
While it's encouraging for Neymar that Ancelotti hasn't entirely dismissed his World Cup chances, it probably doesn't console the Barcelona icon who hasn't represented his nation since suffering an ACL injury in Dec. 2023.
Full Brazil Squad for Friendlies vs. France, Croatia
Full Brazil Squad for Friendlies vs. France, Croatia
Goalkeepers
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Defenders
Midfielders
Midfielders
Forwards
Forwards
