Neymar Excluded from Brazil Squad as Ancelotti Eyes Future Strategies

For the fourth time since Carlo Ancelotti assumed the role of head coach of the Brazil national team, the iconic forward Neymar has been omitted from the Selecao squad for the upcoming international friendlies this month.

Neymar has not represented Brazil since October 2023, when he sustained a ruptured knee ligament during a match against Uruguay. After spending a year rehabilitating from this injury, he finds himself facing a prolonged absence on the international stage.

Under Ancelotti’s management, Neymar has not been called up due to a series of unfortunate fitness setbacks, with his last inclusion in March 2025 resulting in a withdrawal. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has had difficulty maintaining fitness and avoiding injuries.

In response to Neymar’s exclusion, Ancelotti remarked to PLACAR: “Yes, yes (laughs), [the question I’ve heard most so far is] about Neymar, but it’s normal because he’s a legend of Brazilian football. I understand the anticipation for his return to peak physical condition. The CBF, the coaching staff, and everyone involved with the national team hopes to see Neymar back at his best. Modern football requires more than just talent; it demands physical fitness and intensity. We all hope Neymar can achieve his optimal level again.

“I believe he should play more centrally rather than as a winger, as wingers in today’s game are expected to contribute defensively. A more central role would reduce his defensive responsibilities, allowing him to be closer to the goal, where his talent can create more scoring opportunities. A false 9 position could be ideal for him.”

Neymar, who returned to his childhood club Santos in January, is nearing the end of his contract, and the club is currently evaluating the potential for an extension. Santos’ president, Teixeira, commented on Neymar’s renewal: “The Neymar project is not just for six months or a year; it’s aimed at the 2026 World Cup. We understood how to treat Neymar and the investment involved. This is a significant investment, and both Santos and Neymar review the situation regularly. Our financial circumstances will continue to be assessed until the year’s end. Neymar isn’t worried about finances, but Santos has its limits. The focus is on the 2026 World Cup, and if we reach a mutual agreement, his continuation will be confirmed. I am optimistic that we will resolve this situation at the appropriate time.”

Brazilian fans are eagerly awaiting Neymar’s return to the national team as the 2026 World Cup approaches. The former Barcelona and PSG star has one last opportunity in the March international window to showcase his abilities to Ancelotti in hopes of representing his country in North America next summer. However, the 33-year-old must remain fit and perform consistently for Santos to secure a call-up for the upcoming friendlies in March.

Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s Brazil is set to compete against Senegal and Tunisia in consecutive friendlies on November 15 and 18, respectively.