Neymar Jr. has been left out of Brazil’s latest squad as head coach Carlo Ancelotti continues preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The five-time world champions are set to face France on March 26 in Boston, followed by a match against Croatia on March 31 in Orlando.
These fixtures are part of Brazil’s build-up to the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Neymar’s omission comes amid concerns over his fitness. The 34-year-old recently missed a match for Santos FC due to muscle fatigue. Carlo Ancelotti had planned to assess him during that game but ultimately decided not to include the forward, citing a lack of full match readiness.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023. Although he returned to club football last year, he has struggled to maintain consistent form and fitness.
Carlo Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar still has a chance to be part of the World Cup squad if he regains full fitness.
“Neymar can be at the World Cup if he’s 100%,” Ancelotti said. “I didn’t call him up because he’s not 100%. Neymar has to be training and playing.”
Neymar expressed disappointment over the decision but said he remains focused on his recovery and performances.
In his absence, Brazil has turned to younger attacking options, recalling Endrick and giving Igor Thiago his first call-up.
Brazil is also scheduled to face Egypt in June before opening its World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13.
