Carlo Ancelotti has praised Neymar’s recent performances and addressed growing calls from teammates for the star to be included in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad. In an interview with Reuters, the manager described the debate as “normal,” noting that each person is entitled to an opinion on whether the forward should make the final list, which will be announced next Monday.
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“Neymar is very loved, not just by the fans but also by the players. If you call him up, you’re not bringing a bomb into the locker room—he’s well-liked and respected. I think it’s normal for everyone to share their views. I appreciate all the advice I’ve received,” Ancelotti stated.
The Brazil head coach highlighted that Neymar is now playing with greater consistency and said he feels no pressure over the decision, even though he acknowledged it is a complicated one.
“When you have to choose, you have to consider many factors. In this case, Neymar is an important player for this country because of the talent he has always shown. He had a setback, but he’s recovering. He’s working hard, he’s playing, and in recent times, he has improved a lot, playing with continuity. Obviously, for me, it’s not a simple decision. I have to weigh the pros and cons carefully. But that doesn’t put pressure on me—because, as I said, a year ago we evaluated not just Neymar but all the players.”
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Neymar is among the 55 players included in Ancelotti’s preliminary squad submitted to FIFA this week. From this list, the Italian will announce the final 26 names at an event next Monday at the Museu do Amanhã. Any substitutions before the World Cup must also come from this preliminary list.
Ancelotti pointed out that Neymar’s improvement has been noticeable “in the last 15 to 20 days,” coinciding with his improved physical condition. He added that the intensity required in the World Cup will depend on each match. The manager expressed confidence in the work he has done leading up to the final selection.
“I am the most suitable person to make this decision. Because the information I have about all Brazilian players this year—no one else has it. So, I am the most qualified. Can I make a perfect list? Impossible. But I can make a list with fewer mistakes compared to others. Of that, I am sure,” he commented.
When asked about the potential impact of Neymar on the team’s atmosphere during the World Cup, Ancelotti was firm.
“The external environment is controlled—it will be controlled until the end of the World Cup. With or without Neymar.”
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The final World Cup squad announcement will take place next Monday, the 18th, at 5 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro. The selected players will report on the 27th at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, except for those involved in the Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal.
Brazil’s World Cup debut is scheduled for June 13 against Morocco in New Jersey. Before that, the team will play friendlies against Panama on May 31 at the Maracanã and Egypt on June 6 in Cleveland.
