Carlo Ancelotti has responded to growing speculation surrounding Neymar’s international future, as Brazilian greats intensify calls for the forward to be included in the country’s 2026 World Cup plans.
Neymar’s prospects of featuring at the next FIFA World Cup appear increasingly uncertain following his prolonged absence from the national side. Despite that, several current stars and former icons have publicly backed the Santos FC attacker to return to the squad.
Speaking ahead of Brazil’s friendly against France national football team in Boston, Ancelotti addressed repeated questions about why Neymar has not featured in his plans since he took charge.
The Italian manager acknowledged the public debate but stressed that his responsibility is to make decisions in the team’s best interests rather than respond to external pressure.
“I observe everything, I listen to everything. But my role is to make decisions,” Ancelotti said. “It’s normal that everyone can have an opinion, because football isn’t a university, it isn’t an exact science.
“Everyone has their opinion, and I have to respect everyone’s opinion.”
The scrutiny has intensified after several Brazilian legends weighed in. Most notably, Romário — a central figure in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup triumph — urged the coaching staff to prioritise technical quality over rigid physical benchmarks when considering selections.
Their interventions have added fresh momentum to the debate over Neymar’s role in Brazil’s future.
While long-term squad planning continues, Brazil’s immediate attention turns to upcoming fixtures. After facing France, they will play another friendly against Croatia national football team as preparations continue.
Meanwhile, Neymar has a limited window to strengthen his case. The forward has eight matches remaining for Santos before the World Cup squad is finalised, beginning with a Campeonato Brasileiro Série A fixture against Clube do Remo on 2 April.
