Ancelotti Responds to Neymar’s Comments on National Team Exclusion

Neymar Jr. was on the verge of returning to the Brazil national team after 22 months. However, just before the announcement of the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, he suffered an injury. As a result, Neymar, who had been included in the preliminary squad, did not make the final selection. Recently, Neymar himself stated that his exclusion was “completely technical, not due to injury.” Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has now addressed these remarks.

Brazil will face Chile tomorrow (Friday) in the World Cup qualifier. Ahead of the match, Ancelotti held a press conference to discuss the team’s goals and the potential of players in Brazil’s pipeline. Out of 70 eligible players, he has called up 25 for the squad. The former Real Madrid coach stressed that a player must be fully fit and meet all technical criteria to receive a call-up.

Ancelotti said: “Let me be clear: priority is given to the player’s quality and skill. Then comes full fitness. That fitness is not just for personal performance, but for the benefit of the entire team. I never call a lesser-quality player just because they might be more effective; the team’s overall performance is what matters.”

The topic of Neymar’s exclusion due to injury surfaced again.

Addressing the situation, the Italian legend explained: “Technical decisions depend on many factors. What players are doing, what they have done previously, and the challenges they are currently facing. The selection committee places great importance on physical fitness. I have said before: there is no room for discussion regarding Neymar on a technical level. We assess the physical condition for every player, not just him. There is strong competition in this squad—70 players are World Cup-level.”

After being left out of the national squad, Neymar played for Santos against Fluminense on 1 September. He played the full 90 minutes in a goalless draw. Neymar commented: “There was some swelling and discomfort in my adductor, but it was nothing serious, as evidenced by the fact that I played today. My exclusion from the national team was completely technical. It had nothing to do with my physical condition. It is the coach’s decision, and I respect that. Since I am not in the squad, I will support the team from outside.”

For the upcoming matches, João Pedro will take Neymar’s place. Ancelotti elaborated on his selection: “Modern football is losing pace, aggression, and power. Estevao is a skilled player of that type, similar to Raphinha, Vinicius, and Martinelli. This is what modern football demands. João Pedro will play as number 10 or as a central forward. We will decide who will support him; I think Estevao and Raphinha could be behind him.”

Key Points:

Ancelotti emphasises a balanced approach, combining technical skill, fitness, and tactical flexibility, ensuring Brazil remains competitive in the upcoming qualifiers.