Ancelotti addresses Neymar’s absence from national team

Carlo Ancelotti has addressed mounting pressure to recall Neymar to the Brazil national team, insisting that squad decisions cannot be reduced to simple formulas as preparations for the 2026 World Cup intensify. 

The Santos forward has not featured under Ancelotti, despite growing calls for his return.

Speaking ahead of Brazil’s international friendly against France in Boston, Ancelotti acknowledged the widespread debate but made it clear that the final call rests with him. 

He stressed that football is subjective in nature, noting that while opinions are inevitable, his responsibility is to make decisions he believes serve the team best.

Pressure on the Italian coach has been fueled by outspoken support for Neymar from Brazilian legends. 

Romário argued that elite talent should take precedence, even if the player is not at peak fitness, emphasizing that a World Cup preparation period allows enough time for recovery and integration into the squad.

Similarly, Ronaldo Nazário backed Neymar’s inclusion, stating that if the forward is physically fit, he should be part of the World Cup squad. 

He expressed confidence that Neymar’s quality could still make a significant impact on the global stage.

Support has also come from current players, including Fabinho, who described Neymar as Brazil’s most talented player. 

He highlighted the forward’s ability to change games at any moment, suggesting he could be crucial in a tournament setting if he returns to full fitness and form.

For now, Ancelotti remains focused on upcoming fixtures against France and Croatia as he refines his squad. 

With only a handful of matches left for Neymar at club level before the World Cup squad is finalized, time is running short for the forward to prove his readiness and force his way back into Brazil’s plans.

Brazil’s fixtures for the March international window are a clash with France on Thursday and Croatia on April 1.