Carlo Ancelotti will decide whether Neymar makes Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup based on fitness and form, not reputation, ahead of Monday’s squad announcement in Rio de Janeiro.
The 34-year-old forward returned to Santos FC after another injury-hit spell, but questions remain over whether he can handle the physical demands of Ancelotti’s system. Brazil’s new coach wants forwards who can press, track back and maintain intensity across 90 minutes.
“When you have to choose, you have to consider many things,” Ancelotti told Reuters. “Neymar is an important player for this country because of the talent he has always shown. But he has had problems and is working hard to recover.”
“He has improved a lot recently and is playing regularly. It is, obviously, not such an easy decision for me. We have to weigh up the pros and cons carefully.”
Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer and still carries strong backing inside the dressing room. Several Brazil players publicly supported his inclusion before the squad announcement.
“I know full well that Neymar is much loved, not only by the public but also by the players,” Ancelotti said. “It’s not as if I’m going to drop a bombshell in the dressing room. He’s very well-liked.”
The former Real Madrid CF coach insisted outside pressure would not influence the decision. He also rejected suggestions that the Brazilian Football Confederation pushed him towards selecting Neymar.
“I haven’t been pressured by anyone to call up Neymar. I have complete autonomy,” Ancelotti said. “The decision will be 100% professional. I will only take into account how he is performing as a footballer. Nothing else.”
Ancelotti also pointed to Neymar’s recent improvement at club level.
“He has improved his fitness a lot in recent matches,” Ancelotti said. “He can maintain a high intensity in a match. But there are matches and matches.”
Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign next month with Ancelotti leading the side for the first time since leaving Madrid.
