'With Or Without Neymar': Carlo Ancelotti Raises Doubts About Superstar's Availability For World Cup

Last Updated:December 06, 2025, 13:38 IST

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is unsure if Neymar will be part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, citing fitness and competition.

Neymar's career has been marred by injuries. (AP Photo)

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has cast doubt on Neymar’s inclusion in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. Since taking over in May, the Italian coach has yet to select the former captain.

“If Neymar deserves to be in the squad and is better than others, he will play in the World Cup, and that’s it. I don’t owe anyone anything," Ancelotti stated during a press conference in Washington on Friday after the draw.

Brazil finds itself in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland.

Ancelotti further commented, “If we talk about Neymar, we must also talk about other players. We need to consider Brazil both with and without Neymar, and with or without other players. Our final list will be made after the FIFA fixtures in March."

Neymar, now 33, has struggled to fully recover from a torn ACL sustained in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Despite this, he has been instrumental in Santos’ efforts to avoid relegation in the Brazilian championship.

On Wednesday, Neymar scored a hat trick for Santos, even while dealing with a muscular injury. He is expected to play again on Sunday against Cruzeiro.

Ancelotti remarked that Brazil currently lacks a “referential player," a title Neymar has predominantly held since the 2014 home World Cup.

“We have one of the world’s best goalkeepers, some of the best defenders, top midfielders, and some strong players up front. I don’t want players who aim to be the best in the world; I want players who aim to win the World Cup," Ancelotti emphasised.

Regarding his team’s group, Ancelotti expressed confidence that Brazil can emerge on top.

“We can win all three matches; our strategy is clear. We need to be competitive throughout the entire World Cup. Our goal is to play in the final, and to achieve that, you inevitably have to face very strong teams."

Brazil last clinched a World Cup trophy in 2002.

With AP Inputs

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