Carlo Ancelotti Drops Neymar Jr. from Brazil Squad for France and Croatia Friendlies Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar Jr. was excluded from the national team squad for the upcoming international friendlies against France and Croatia. The decision, which surprised many fans, was based on the forward’s current physical condition rather than his talent or ability. Ancelotti emphasized that the team requires players who are fully fit and ready to perform at their best. Neymar, 34, has faced significant challenges with injuries in recent years. After undergoing serious knee surgery in 2023, he has struggled to regain full fitness. This season, he has played only four matches for Santos, with his last appearance coming in a 1–1 draw against Corinthians, where he completed the full 90 minutes. However, he missed a subsequent match against Mirassol due to a muscle strain caused by fatigue. The last time Neymar played for Brazil was in October 2023, during a South American World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, where he suffered the knee injury that led to his prolonged recovery. Ancelotti clarified that the decision to leave Neymar out of the squad was purely a physical assessment. “If he arrives at the next World Cup at 100%, he can participate,” the coach said. “Why isn’t he on this list now? Because he isn’t at 100%. We need players who are at 100% right now.” Ancelotti also reiterated that the decision was not about Neymar’s technical skills or potential. “He handles the ball very well,” the coach stated. “For the coaching staff and me, he hasn’t yet reached his full potential. He has to work to achieve it.” The coach added that Neymar must continue training and playing to regain his best form, with the door to future selection still open if he can fully recover.#carlo_ancelotti #santos #neymar_jr #brazil_national_team #france_croatia_friendlies
