Brazil’s national team will have to wait a little longer for the return of star forward Neymar, as the country’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has decided not to include him in the squad for two friendly matches scheduled in March. This was reported by ESPN, highlighting Ancelotti’s cautious approach ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 31-year-old Brazilian superstar has recently returned to action for Santos FC after a lengthy injury layoff, but Ancelotti believes that Neymar must regain his full rhythm and fitness at club level before resuming international duty. “We want him to be completely ready before taking the field for Brazil again,” a member of the coaching staff stated.
Brazil will face France and Croatia in the United States in March. These friendlies are intended as an opportunity to test new and alternative players, allowing Ancelotti to evaluate options for the squad as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar’s absence opens the door for emerging talents to gain international experience while ensuring that the team maintains a balance between youth and experience.
The national team’s medical and coaching staff continue to monitor Neymar’s physical condition closely. Should he demonstrate satisfactory fitness in the latter part of the club season, he is expected to rejoin the squad for subsequent international fixtures.
Neymar’s Return: Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Neymar (Brazil) |
| Current Status | Returned to club football at Santos after injury |
| Upcoming International Matches | March 2026, United States vs France & Croatia |
| Coach | Carlo Ancelotti |
| Reason for Exclusion | Gradual recovery and fitness evaluation |
| Team Objective | Testing new and alternative players; balancing youth and experience |
| Potential Return | Dependent on satisfactory fitness at the end of the club season |
Brazil’s management views Neymar’s careful reintegration as essential not only for his personal performance but also for the team’s long-term strategic planning. The coaching staff is intent on avoiding any risk of re-injury and ensuring that Neymar is fully prepared for the rigours of the World Cup.
As March approaches, the footballing world will watch closely to see when Neymar will finally don the Seleção jersey once again. In his absence, Ancelotti will rely on emerging talents and squad depth to maintain Brazil’s competitive edge, while simultaneously preparing for the challenges of the global stage in 2026.
By delaying Neymar’s return, Brazil’s management aims to combine experience with youth, ensuring the team remains balanced and well-prepared for what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.