Neymar’s chance to represent Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is dwindling. The 33-year-old, once a key player for the national team, has been left off head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 23-man roster for Brazil’s final two World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia next week.
This means Neymar has not played for the national team for nearly two years. Ancelotti has cited a leg muscle injury sustained last week as the reason for Neymar’s exclusion, even though Brazil has already secured their place in the World Cup.
The former Barcelona and PSG star, who currently plays for Santos, last wore the iconic yellow jersey in October 2023. Recurring knee injuries have hindered his efforts to return.
“Neymar sustained a minor injury last week. These final qualifier matches will be demanding, and we require players in optimal condition to perform at the highest level,” Ancelotti explained.
The Italian coach, who has previously stated his commitment to preparing Neymar for the World Cup, has chosen to prioritize caution regarding the player’s fitness.
“We don’t need to evaluate Neymar; everyone knows his ability and what he brings. We need him fully fit to support the national team as we all know he can,” added Ancelotti.
The selected squad includes experienced players like Alisson, Marquinhos, and Casemiro, along with young talents such as Chelsea’s Estevao and West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta, as Brazil aims to conclude their qualifying campaign successfully.
Ancelotti’s squad includes:
- Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al-Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians).
- Defenders: Alexsandro Ribeiro (Lille), Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Caio Henrique (Monaco), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Fabricio Bruno (Cruzeiro), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Marquinhos (PSG), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Roma).
- Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Chelsea), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Joelinton (Newcastle), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham).
- Forwards: Estevao (Chelsea), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Kaio Jorge (Cruzeiro), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham).
Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account and follow leagues, teams, and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily!
