Carlo Ancelotti faces a pivotal decision ahead of Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad announcement on May 18, as the Italian manager grapples with whether to include Neymar in his final 26-man roster. The Santos forward, now 34, remains one of Brazilian football's most talented players, but recent injury struggles and his stint at Al Hilal have cast doubt over his place in the tournament.
Ancelotti included Neymar in his provisional 55-man squad but acknowledged the complexity of the decision in an exclusive interview. "When you have to choose, you need to take many things into consideration," the Brazil manager explained. "Neymar is an important player for this country because of the talent he has always shown. He has had some problems, and he is working hard to recover. He has improved a lot recently and is playing regularly. Obviously, for me it's not an easy decision."
Group Harmony and Player Support
One crucial factor influencing Ancelotti's evaluation is the internal dynamic within the squad. The Brazilian teammates have made their preference clear, wanting Neymar's presence in the group. "I know perfectly well that Neymar is very well-liked, not only by the public, but also by the players," Ancelotti noted. This backing from fellow internationals carries significant weight in his deliberations, as maintaining squad cohesion remains paramount for tournament success.
The coach emphasized that his decision-making process transcends external pressure. Media scrutiny and fan opinion cannot dictate his selection, though he recognizes the broader implications of either choice. "I don't believe the internal environment will affect the team at all," he stated. "The environment is very positive, very calm, and no matter which player is in the squad, it will remain positive and calm until the end."
Physical Demands and Professional Assessment
Ancelotti's evaluation centers on Neymar's ability to meet the physical and tactical requirements of modern international football. Recent matches for Santos have shown encouraging signs of fitness improvement. "He has greatly improved his physical condition in recent matches. He can maintain a high intensity during a match," the Brazil manager confirmed.
However, competitive intensity and defensive recovery remain non-negotiable elements of Ancelotti's tactical system. The former Real Madrid and Liverpool boss has spent a year evaluating all squad options, ensuring that whoever takes the field can execute his demanding vision. With the announcement just over a week away, Neymar's future in Brazil's World Cup plans will soon be determined by Ancelotti's final assessment of both his capabilities and the team's overall composition.
