Neymar Omitted from Brazil Squad Ahead of Friendlies

Neymar has been excluded from Brazil national football team’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against France national football team and Croatia national football team, as head coach Carlo Ancelotti prioritizes players who are fully fit and match-ready ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Neymar’s omission is primarily due to his ongoing recovery from a severe ACL and meniscus injury sustained in October 2023. Since returning to play for Santos FC, he has featured in only a few games in early 2026 and recently missed a match against Mirassol due to muscle fatigue. These factors have limited his ability to demonstrate consistent form and intensity to the coaching staff.

Another concern is his lack of match rhythm. Neymar has struggled for regular playing time, which Ancelotti considers crucial for the high-intensity demands of a World Cup campaign. The coach has stressed that the decision is purely based on fitness and readiness, not talent, emphasizing that “Neymar has to be training and playing” to be considered for selection.

Despite this setback, Neymar still has a pathway to the final 26-man World Cup squad, which will be announced on May 18, 2026. The forward has expressed disappointment but remains focused on regaining peak condition. Meanwhile, younger talents such as Endrick and Igor Thiago have been included in the squad, giving Brazil fresh attacking options and ensuring competition for places.

Neymar’s fitness progress in the coming weeks will be pivotal, as Brazil aims to enter the World Cup with a fully prepared and competitive team ready to challenge for the trophy.