Real Madrid Names Squad for Madrid Derby Amid Key Injuries Real Madrid has announced its squad for the upcoming Madrid derby against Atlético de Madrid, set for LaLiga’s 29th round. The match will take place at the Santiago Bernabéu, where the team will face six key absences due to injuries. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, defender Éder Militao, and forwards Raúl Asencio, Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos, and Rodrygo Goes are all sidelined. Jude Bellingham, who previously missed the match against Manchester City due to a hamstring injury, is included in the squad for the derby. The midfielder, who has been out for over a month and a half, now has a chance to return to action. His inclusion marks a potential breakthrough after a prolonged absence. Additionally, Álvaro Carreras, fully recovered from a calf injury, is also expected to play. Courtois, who will miss the match due to a muscle injury, joins Militao, Mendy, Ceballos, and Rodrygo in the injury list. The club has called up Sergio Mestre, a young academy player, as the third goalkeeper. Mario Rivas, Jorge Cestero, and César Palacios have been omitted from the squad. The final squad includes the following players: Porters: Lunin, Fran González, and Sergio Mestre. Defenders: Carvajal, Trent, Alaba, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Carreras, Fran García, and Diego Aguado. Midfielders: Fede Valverde, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Arda Güler, Bellingham, Thiago Pitarch, and Manuel Ángel. Forwards: Vinícius, Brahim, Mastantuono, Mbappé, and Gonzalo. The match represents a crucial test for Real Madrid as they aim to maintain their position in the LaLiga title race. The absence of key players will force manager Carlo Ancelotti to rely on depth and adaptability in the lineup.#la_liga #real_madrid #atltico_de_madrid #carlo_ancelotti #santiago_bernabu
Neymar has been left out of Brazil's latest squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, as Carlo Ancelotti prioritizes fitness over technical ability for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Santos forward, who returned to domestic football after a prolonged injury layoff, is not included in the initial selection, with Ancelotti emphasizing that the 34-year-old is not yet at full physical capacity to represent the national team. The decision marks the final experimental phase for Brazil before finalizing their World Cup squad. Ancelotti stated that while Neymar's technical skills remain impressive, the coaching staff requires players at 100% fitness for the current setup. "Neymar can be at the World Cup too," the manager said, "but he is not 100% right now. We need players at 100% for this stage. The conversation for the final list will be different." The manager reiterated that Neymar must continue working on his physical condition to be considered for the tournament. Despite a recent return to action, Neymar's fitness has not met the team's standards. After a three-match absence due to knee surgery, he made his Serie A debut against Vasco da Gama, scoring two goals in a 2-1 win. However, Ancelotti and his staff have been cautious, observing his performance in subsequent matches. In a 2-2 draw against Mirassol, Neymar was excluded from the squad, and his impact was limited in a 1-1 draw against Corinthians, where he provided an assist but failed to showcase his usual goal-scoring threat. The coaching staff has emphasized that physical readiness is the priority, even as Neymar continues to demonstrate his technical prowess. Ancelotti clarified that the decision is based on a physical evaluation rather than technical ability, stating, "He has to work to be at 100% of his possibilities.#serie_a #carlo_ancelotti #neymar #brazil #world_cup
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
Neymar has been excluded from Brazil's squad for the upcoming March friendlies against France and Croatia, marking another setback in his quest to secure a spot in the World Cup squad. The Santos forward, who has not played for the national team since October 2023 due to a knee injury, was left out of coach Carlo Ancelotti's 26-man roster for the matches in Boston and Orlando. The decision comes as Brazil prepares to finalize its World Cup squad on May 18. Neymar expressed disappointment after the squad announcement, stating he was "upset and sad" about being omitted. However, he emphasized his commitment to continuing his training and recovery, vowing to "reach our goal" by making the final squad. The 34-year-old, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, had recently returned to action with Corinthians, playing 90 minutes in a 1-1 draw. Despite his performance, Ancelotti noted that Neymar is "not at 100 percent" and needs to improve his physical condition to be considered for the World Cup. Endrick, the 19-year-old forward from Lyon, has made his debut in the national team squad, marking a significant breakthrough for the young player. Since joining Lyon from Real Madrid in the winter transfer window, Endrick has scored six goals in 12 appearances, earning Ancelotti's praise. Other notable inclusions are Igor Thiago, who has earned his first call-up, and attacking duo Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior. Midfielder Casemiro, a veteran at Manchester United, has also been selected, while Lucas Paquetá was left out despite his recent move to Flamengo. Ancelotti highlighted the importance of players performing well in their domestic leagues, citing Endrick, Rayan, and Danilo as examples.#real_madrid #carlo_ancelotti #neymar #endrick #brazil
Official: Vinicius, Endrick named in Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies With the FIFA World Cup in North America just months away, Brazil’s first international break of 2026 has arrived, as the team prepares for two friendlies against France and Croatia in the United States. The matches, scheduled for March 26 and March 31, will serve as a key opportunity for coach Carlo Ancelotti to test his squad ahead of the global tournament. Ancelotti has finalized the list of players selected for the U.S. trip, with Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and teenage sensation Endrick among the standout additions. The 25-year-old Vinicius, a central figure in Madrid’s attacking play, has been called up to bolster Brazil’s forward options. His recent form with Los Blancos has positioned him as a critical asset for the Selecao, though his international performances have occasionally fallen short of expectations. Endrick, the 19-year-old Brazilian winger on loan at Olympique Lyon, has also earned a spot in the squad. His impressive six-goal, four-assist tally in 12 appearances for Lyon has earned him recognition, and he will compete for a starting role in the No. 9 position. The young forward’s inclusion highlights Brazil’s focus on developing talent ahead of the World Cup. However, several key players are absent due to injury concerns. Rodrygo, who suffered an ACL rupture last month, has been ruled out of the tournament and will miss both friendlies. Eder Militao, another important defender, is also sidelined, leaving Ancelotti to rely on younger or less experienced options in key positions. The squad’s selection reflects a balance between experienced campaigners and emerging stars, as Brazil aims to refine its strategy for the 2026 World Cup.#real_madrid #vinicius_jr #carlo_ancelotti #endrick #fifa_world_cup
Major Carlo Ancelotti Decision Derails Neymar’s 2026 World Cup Hopes Neymar, the Brazilian forward who returned from a knee injury in February, has been in stellar form for Santos, recording two goals and two assists in his last four appearances. Despite his recent resurgence, the 34-year-old was left out of Brazil’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against France and Croatia. This decision marks another exclusion for Neymar under Ancelotti’s management, who has consistently overlooked the player since taking charge of the Seleção in May. Ancelotti’s rationale for omitting Neymar was outlined during a press conference, where he stated that the forward is not at 100% fitness and therefore not included in the squad. The manager emphasized that Neymar’s physical condition is a key factor in his eligibility for the 2026 World Cup, which is set to begin in three months. While Ancelotti did not entirely rule out Neymar’s participation, he stressed the need for the player to maintain peak performance and physical readiness to secure a spot. The exclusion has raised concerns for Neymar, who has not featured for Brazil since sustaining an ACL injury in December 2023. With limited opportunities remaining to prove himself ahead of the World Cup, the decision has dampened his prospects of being part of the squad. Analysts and fans are now closely monitoring Neymar’s recovery and performance in club football, as his inclusion in the final squad will be critical for Brazil’s chances in the tournament. Brazil’s full squad for the friendlies includes key players such as Alisson, Gabriel Magalhães, and Vinícius Júnior, with Casemiro and Raphinha also named. The team’s attacking options feature Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, and Matheus Cunha, while the defense is anchored by Alex Sandro and Danilo.#carlo_ancelotti #neymar #santos #brazil #2026_world_cup
Neymar excluded from Brazil's March squad, Endrick included for first time under Ancelotti Neymar has been omitted from Brazil's squad for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, marking another setback in his quest to secure a World Cup spot. The Santos forward, who has not played for the national team since October 2023 due to a severe knee injury, was left out of coach Carlo Ancelotti's 26-man squad announced on Monday. The decision comes as Brazil prepares for its final World Cup qualifiers in March before finalizing its roster on May 18. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, expressed disappointment at not being selected for the two matches in the United States. Speaking at an event in Sao Paulo, he said, "I am upset and sad" about his exclusion but emphasized his commitment to training and recovery. "My focus remains, day after day, training after training, match after match. We will reach our goal, there's still the final squad," he added. Ancelotti explained that Neymar's absence was due to his incomplete recovery from the ACL and meniscus tear. "Neymar is not at 100 percent and therefore he is not on the list," the coach stated. "If he can be at 100 percent physically, he can be there. Neymar could be at the World Cup. He has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities and maintaining good physical condition." Endrick, the 19-year-old forward from Lyon, has made his debut in Ancelotti's squad, marking his first call-up since the coach took charge in June. The young striker, who has scored six goals in 12 appearances since joining Lyon from Real Madrid, is seen as a key addition to Brazil's attacking options. Other notable inclusions are Igor Thiago, who earned his first cap with Brentford, and veteran players like Raphinha, Vinícius Júnior, and João Pedro.#carlo_ancelotti #neymar #endrick #brazil #world_cup
Brentford’s Igor Thiago Called Up for Brazil – Where Does He Fit in Their Side Brentford striker Igor Thiago has been selected for the Brazil national team for the first time, following a standout season in the Premier League. The 24-year-old has netted 21 goals across all competitions this term, with 18 coming in the league—only Erling Haaland has scored more in the top flight. His consistent performances have earned him a spot in Brazil’s squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup. Thiago’s inclusion marks a significant milestone in his career, especially considering he missed most of last season after a severe knee injury following his £30m transfer from Club Brugge. His recent form has been so impressive that Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has chosen to name him in the squad, highlighting his potential to contribute to the national team’s success. If Thiago continues his current scoring rate, it will be challenging for Ancelotti to ignore his impact in the World Cup qualifiers. Brentford manager Keith Andrews has previously noted that Brazil had been closely monitoring Thiago’s progress, with the national team in regular contact about his performances. This call-up comes just over four weeks after Thiago signed a contract extension with Brentford, securing his future at the club until 2031. The striker has already claimed the Premier League’s Player of the Month award twice this season, further underscoring his importance to both his club and country. Thiago’s role in Brazil’s attack remains a topic of interest. While he competes with forwards like Richarlison, Matheus Cunha, and João Pedro for a starting position, his playing style offers a unique dimension.#premier_league #brentford #carlo_ancelotti #brazil #igor_thiago
Brazil Names Thiago and Rayan in World Cup Squad Call-Ups Brazil’s national team has announced the inclusion of Brentford striker Igor Thiago and Bournemouth winger Rayan in their squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. The call-ups mark the first international appearances for both players, who have impressed in the Premier League this season. Former Norwich attacker Gabriel Sara has also been selected for the first time, though the squad is missing key forward Neymar, who is not fit for the matches. Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar’s absence is due to his lack of full recovery, stating, “I haven’t called him up because he’s not 100 percent. But for the final World Cup squad, that’s another story.” The friendlies against France on 26 March and Croatia on 31 March will serve as the last matches before Ancelotti finalizes his World Cup roster. Thiago, 24, has emerged as a standout performer for Brentford, scoring 19 goals in the Premier League this season—second only to Erling Haaland’s 22. His contributions helped Brentford secure seventh place in the league table. The Brazilian joined the club in July 2024 for a record £30m fee from Club Brugge but faced injury challenges in his debut season, limiting him to eight appearances. Rayan, 19, has made an immediate impact since joining Bournemouth in January for £24.7m from Vasco de Gama. The young winger has already netted two Premier League goals, showcasing his potential as a future star. Meanwhile, Sara, 26, has had a successful transition to Turkish football, joining Galatasaray in July 2024 and winning the Turkish Super League in his first season with the club.#brentford #carlo_ancelotti #neymar #rayan #igor_thiago
Neymar given Brazil hope as Carlo Ancelotti names Santos star in squad but ex-Barcelona hero could still be axed ahead of World Cup Neymar has been included in Brazil’s preliminary squad for the upcoming World Cup, offering a glimmer of hope for his potential inclusion in the final 23-player roster. However, the decision by coach Carlo Ancelotti to name Santos star as part of the squad does not guarantee the forward’s place in the final team, as the selection process remains uncertain. The inclusion of Neymar, who previously played for Barcelona and is now with Santos, has sparked discussions about his role in the tournament, particularly given his history with the national team and recent form. The news comes as Ancelotti prepares for the World Cup, with the coach facing pressure to balance experience and youth in Brazil’s squad. While Neymar’s inclusion in the preliminary list suggests he is still under consideration, his absence in the match against Mirassol v Santos has raised questions about his readiness for the tournament. Analysts note that Ancelotti may prioritize players who have demonstrated consistency in recent matches, and Neymar’s performance in the Santos game could influence his fate. The Brazilian team’s selection process is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with Ancelotti likely to make adjustments based on player fitness and tactical needs. Despite the uncertainty, Neymar’s presence in the preliminary squad highlights his importance to Brazil’s campaign, though his final status remains unclear. The coach’s decision to name Santos’ star underscores the competitive nature of the squad selection, as Brazil aims to secure a strong position in the World Cup group stage.#carlo_ancelotti #neymar #santos #brazil #world_cup
Brazil's squad for the 2026 World Cup includes Neymar as a key contender, but the Santos star faces a critical final test before securing his place. The 34-year-old has been named in Carlo Ancelotti's preliminary list for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, marking the last international window before the global tournament. However, Neymar's participation in the national team's final selection remains uncertain, as he is sidelined for Santos' Brasileirao match against Mirassol due to load management. With only one domestic game left against Corinthians, the forward must prove his fitness to convince Ancelotti and CBF director Rodrigo Caetano of his readiness for the World Cup. Ancelotti's scrutiny of Neymar's final audition highlights the pressure on the star player. While the Selecao's coaching staff has expressed confidence in his ability to contribute, the manager's decision will hinge on Neymar's performance in the upcoming matches. The Brazilian forward's inclusion in the preliminary squad offers a lifeline, but his absence from the next game underscores the need for a strong showing in the final domestic fixture. The outcome of this test will determine whether he joins the final 26-player squad for the World Cup. Endrick, the teenage forward who joined Olympique Lyonnais in January, has emerged as a bright prospect for Brazil's future. The 19-year-old has already made an impact in Ligue 1, scoring five goals and providing three assists in just 10 appearances. His rapid adaptation to French football has caught the attention of the national team's coaching staff, who see him as a vital addition to the squad's attacking options. With his youthful energy and technical skills, Endrick's inclusion in the final squad seems highly likely, offering Brazil a fresh dynamic in their frontline.#carlo_ancelotti #neymar #rodrigo_caetano #endrick #bremer
Real Madrid Lineup Confirmed for La Liga Clash Against Getafe Real Madrid have officially released their starting XI for the upcoming La Liga encounter against Getafe. The match, set to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, will see the defending champions field a lineup adjusted due to several injury concerns. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is expected to start in goal, with the defense featuring Eder Militao, Raphael Varane, and Dani Carvajal. Midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric are likely to anchor the central midfield, while forward Vinicius Jr. and Karim Benzema are expected to spearhead the attack. Getafe’s starting lineup remains under review, with the club yet to finalize their selection. However, the visitors are expected to rely on their experienced squad, including key players such as Alejandro Arribas and Fran Rico. The match is anticipated to be a test of Real Madrid’s depth, as manager Carlo Ancelotti makes strategic adjustments to address the team’s injury issues. The game will be broadcast live at 21:00 CET (03:00pm EST) and will be available on DAZN La Liga (Spain) and ESPN Deportes (USA). Fans can also stream the match via ESPN+ in the United States. The fixture highlights Real Madrid’s focus on maintaining their dominance in La Liga, despite the challenges posed by player injuries and the need for tactical flexibility. The match is expected to be a crucial test for Real Madrid as they aim to secure a strong position in the league standings. With Getafe’s squad showing resilience in recent matches, the visitors will pose a threat, but the home advantage and Madrid’s depth should give them a solid chance to win. The game will also provide insight into how Ancelotti’s team adapts to the challenges of the season, balancing the need for results with the management of player workload.#real_madrid #getafe #carlo_ancelotti #thibaut_courtois #dazn_la_liga
