“Neymar is not at 100%, and therefore he is not on the list,” said Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of the Brazil National Team, regarding the star forward’s exclusion from the squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia.
Neymar’s absence comes after a challenging period for the player, who last represented Brazil in October 2023 during a match against Uruguay. Following that appearance, he underwent surgery on his left knee in December 2023, which has significantly impacted his fitness levels.
Despite his absence from the national team, Neymar has been active at the club level, recently assisting in Santos’ 1-1 draw. However, Ancelotti noted that Neymar still needs to demonstrate his physical readiness to secure a spot in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
“Neymar has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities and maintaining a good physical condition,” Ancelotti added, highlighting the importance of Neymar’s ongoing efforts to regain full fitness.
As one of the most iconic players in Brazilian football history, Neymar’s inclusion in the World Cup squad is highly anticipated. Brazil has not won the World Cup since 2002, and the team is looking to reclaim its status on the global stage.
With five World Cup titles to their name, the pressure is mounting for the Brazilian squad to perform well in the upcoming tournament. However, uncertainties remain about Neymar’s ability to reach full fitness before the World Cup. Details remain unconfirmed.
As the friendlies approach, all eyes will be on Neymar’s progress and whether he can prove his readiness to Ancelotti and the Brazilian football community.