Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has issued a resolute defence of his decision to exclude Neymar from the national team, emphasising that merit and tactical balance—not reputation—will determine squad selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking in Boston before a high-profile friendly against the France national football team, Ancelotti addressed growing criticism from fans, media, and former players. The fixture is part of Brazil’s broader preparations for the World Cup, yet the spotlight has shifted firmly onto the absence of one of the country’s most iconic players.
Now representing Santos FC, Neymar has not featured in any of Ancelotti’s squads since the Italian’s appointment. The decision has sparked a national debate, with opinions sharply divided between those advocating for loyalty to proven stars and those backing a merit-based rebuild.
Ancelotti, however, remains unmoved. He reiterated that while public opinion is inevitable in football, it cannot dictate selection. “I listen to everything,” he said, “but I must decide. Football is not an exact science, and it is certainly not governed by emotion alone. My duty is to choose what best serves the team.”
The pressure has intensified with prominent World Cup-winning figures weighing in. Romário, a hero of Brazil’s 1994 triumph, argued that a player of Neymar’s exceptional ability should be included regardless of match fitness. In his view, Neymar’s creativity and match-winning instincts outweigh the risks associated with limited readiness.
Similarly, Ronaldo Nazário—famously dubbed “The Phenomenon”—suggested that if Neymar can demonstrate sufficient fitness, his inclusion would be inevitable. He highlighted the forward’s unique capacity to influence decisive moments, particularly in tournament football.
Support for Neymar is not confined to past legends. Current international midfielder Fabinho described him as Brazil’s most naturally gifted player, capable of altering the course of a match in seconds. Such endorsements underline the enduring belief in Neymar’s talent, even amid questions over his recent form and fitness.
Yet time is not on Neymar’s side. With the World Cup squad announcement approaching, he has only a limited number of opportunities to prove his readiness. He is expected to play eight remaining Série A fixtures for Santos, beginning with a crucial match against Remo-PA on 2 April. These performances are widely viewed as decisive in determining whether he can force his way back into contention.
Neymar’s Path to Recall
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Club | Santos FC |
| Matches Remaining | 8 (Brazil Série A) |
| Next Fixture | vs Remo-PA (2 April) |
| National Team Status | Not selected under Ancelotti |
| Key Objective | Regain full fitness and sharpness |
| Selection Basis | Performance-driven |
As Brazil refine their preparations for the global stage, the Neymar question continues to dominate discussion. For Ancelotti, the mission is clear: assemble a cohesive, competitive unit capable of delivering results. For Neymar, the challenge is equally stark—produce performances of the highest order and demonstrate that his enduring brilliance still merits a place among Brazil’s elite.