Carlo Ancelotti's first list as a Brazil coach was particularly expected. And she created a real surprise by dismissing one of the emblematic players of the Seleção: Neymar. While his absence aroused many questions and many criticisms, the former Real Madrid coach spoke to clarify a situation that has quickly become controversial in Brazil.
Questioned by the media, Carlo Ancelotti wanted to reassure everyone concerning the role that Neymar will play in his project for the 2026 World Cup. “For this convocation, I chose players in good shape currently. Neymar has just returned from injury. Everyone knows his qualities and we are obviously counting on him ”, explained the Italian technician. Thus, far from being a penalty or a definitive dismissal, this absence would simply be linked to its physical state and its current form.
Neymar, the enigma of Ancelotti: an exclusion that could change everything for Brazil
Neymar, now a Santos player after his departure from Al Hilal, effectively crosses a delicate period. Marked by several injuries in recent months, he struggles to fully find his physical form and his competition pace. As the 2026 World Cup, the Brazilian must quickly become efficient again to hope to be the leader expected by an entire nation. His temporary sidelining could therefore be beneficial, allowing him to find his best sensations before resuming orders from the Seleção.
Ancelotti has already redefined the role of Neymar in the Brazilian project
This first strong decision by Ancelotti clearly marks the tone for his mandate at the head of Brazil. The Italian imposes a clear requirement: only the fully operational players will be called, regardless of their status or popularity. A way of recalling that the Seleção will not have a pass-right, and that even a star like Neymar will have to prove that she deserves her place in the group. This philosophy could quickly bear fruit in a team looking for discipline and renewal after several successive disillusions.
While waiting for his return to selection, Neymar has already thrown towards the 2026 World Cup, organized in the United States, Mexico and Canada. In a recent interview with Disney+, the Brazilian even mentioned the idea that this World Cup may “Revolution” Football by integrating more American entertainment, like during the Super Bowl. Despite its current absence, Neymar therefore remains well at the heart of Brazilian projects and continues to be a major player in the future ambitions of the Seleção.
