Carlo Ancelotti explains Neymar's absence from Brazil squad

It was thought that Neymar wasn’t called up due to an injury.

Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Brazil, has stated that Neymar’s exclusion from his most recent roster was a purposeful technical choice rather than a fitness issue.

“It was a technical decision based on many factors,” the Italian manager explained ahead of Thursday’s World Cup qualifier match against Chile.

Neymar’s quest for another cap is still ongoing as a result of the call. He last played for the Seleção on October 18, 2023. Neymar himself implied that his exclusion was not because of an injury.

Meanwhile, he was having one of his best runs of play in years, but wasn’t able to convince the former Real Madrid coach for a spot in the team.

Physical condition is a key factor for Brazil selection

Ancelotti stressed that physical condition was a key factor in his assessment of every player in the national team pool, albeit stating that it was a technical decision.

“Nobody can question Neymar’s technical ability. What we assess every day, and for every match, is physical fitness. That applies not just to him, but to everyone,” Ancelotti said.

“We’ll look at quality, yes, but also at being 100 percent fit and being able to play for the team rather than individually,” he said.

The seasoned manager acknowledged that he already has a good idea of the team he wants for the 2026 World Cup, even though he did not name any particular player. The players who earn a berth will be the best-conditioned and most able to blend in with the overall scheme out of the almost 70 individuals being considered.

Neymar has played in 20 games since coming back to Santos earlier this year, tallying three assists and six goals.

Already guaranteed a spot in the World Cup, Brazil will play Chile tonight and Bolivia on September 9. With 25 points, they are currently ranked third in the CONMEBOL qualification standings.

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