Ancelotti Defends Neymar Omission

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a firm and candid response to mounting criticism over the continued exclusion of Neymar from the national squad, insisting that team selection must be guided by logic rather than sentiment.

Speaking at a press conference in Boston ahead of a high-profile international friendly against the France national football team, Ancelotti addressed the controversy that has stirred debate across Brazilian football. The match forms part of Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and squad decisions have come under intense scrutiny.

Neymar, currently playing for Santos FC, has not been included in any of Ancelotti’s squads since the Italian took charge. This omission has divided supporters and prompted strong reactions from former players and pundits alike. However, Ancelotti made it clear that the responsibility for such decisions ultimately rests with him.

“I see everything and hear everything,” he remarked. “But my role is to make decisions. It is natural that everyone has their own opinion—football is not a university, nor is it an exact science. I respect all views, but I must prioritise what is best for the team.”

Pressure on Ancelotti has intensified as several of Brazil’s World Cup-winning legends have publicly backed Neymar’s return. Among them is Romário, a key figure in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup triumph, who argued that a player of Neymar’s calibre should be included regardless of current fitness levels. Romário stated that even if not fully match-fit, Neymar’s creativity and influence far outweigh those of an average player.

Echoing similar sentiments, Ronaldo Nazário—widely known as “The Phenomenon”—expressed confidence that Neymar would eventually return if he proves his fitness. He suggested that the forward’s ability to impact matches could be crucial for Brazil’s World Cup ambitions.

Support from within the current playing group has also been evident. Midfielder Fabinho described Neymar as Brazil’s most gifted player, capable of turning a game in an instant. According to Fabinho, a fully fit Neymar remains unmatched in terms of talent and influence.

Despite the growing calls for his inclusion, Neymar faces a narrow window to secure his place in the World Cup squad. Before the final selection is announced, he is expected to feature in just eight more league matches for Santos in Brazil’s Serie A. His first major test will come on 2 April against Remo-PA, a fixture widely seen as the beginning of a निर्णায়ক phase in his bid to regain top form.

Neymar’s Road Back

As Brazil continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, the debate surrounding Neymar’s role shows no signs of fading. For Ancelotti, the priority remains building a balanced and competitive squad. For Neymar, the path back to the international stage is clear but demanding—deliver exceptional performances and prove, beyond doubt, that he still belongs among Brazil’s elite.