Ancelotti Weighs Neymar’s World Cup Place

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to announce his final World Cup squad next Monday, with one question dominating discussion across the country: whether Neymar will be included in the team.

The 34-year-old forward remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, but his place in the squad for the tournament beginning on 11 June is uncertain following a lengthy battle with injuries and an inconsistent return to club football with Santos.

As Brazil prepare for another World Cup campaign, Ancelotti is balancing emotional attachment to one of the nation’s most influential players against the physical and tactical demands of modern football. The five-time world champions are finalising preparations for the competition, and Neymar’s condition has become one of the key selection issues.

Speaking to Reuters on Tuesday, Ancelotti said squad selection required consideration of several factors beyond reputation alone.

“When selecting the squad, many things must be considered. Given the talent Neymar has shown, he is obviously an important player for this country. But he has gone through several problems and is working hard to return. Recently, his performances have improved and he has been playing regularly. However, the decision is not easy for me. We have to examine the advantages and disadvantages very carefully.”

The interview took place at the headquarters of the Brazilian Football Confederation in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro. Widely regarded as one of football’s most successful managers, Ancelotti discussed the sensitive issue in measured terms.

The Italian is the only manager to have won league titles in all five major European leagues. He also won the UEFA Champions League twice as a player and a record five times as a coach.

Neymar’s continued popularity has added another dimension to the selection debate. Several Brazil players have publicly supported his inclusion, while supporters remain divided over whether he can still perform consistently at the highest level after repeated fitness setbacks.

Ancelotti acknowledged Neymar’s standing within the squad.

“I know very well how popular Neymar is. Not only among the public, but also among his teammates.”

He added that Neymar’s presence would not create problems inside the dressing room.

“That is also an important factor. We must consider what kind of atmosphere would be created if Neymar is included. It is not as if his presence would negatively affect the dressing room. He is loved and appreciated by everyone.”

However, the coach stressed that the final decision would remain entirely his own.

“Players will naturally give their opinions. I am grateful to everyone who offers me advice. But at the end of the day, I am the right person to make this decision.”

Ancelotti also stated that he was unconcerned about internal team harmony, describing the atmosphere within the squad as positive and transparent. His greater concern, he indicated, was the reaction beyond the camp, particularly from the media and public debate.

The manager emphasised the physical requirements of his tactical system. He wants four forwards capable of pressing, tracking back defensively and maintaining a high work rate throughout matches — demands that can be difficult for a player returning from prolonged injury problems.

Even so, Ancelotti noted visible improvement in Neymar’s recent performances.

“In the last few matches, Neymar’s fitness has improved significantly. He has played several good matches and has been able to maintain high intensity. But every match is different.”

He also made clear that no external pressure had been placed upon him regarding Neymar’s inclusion.

“Nobody has pressured me to include Neymar. I have complete freedom. I will make the decision entirely from a professional perspective. Only Neymar’s performances as a footballer will be considered — nothing else.”

Neymar has taken a step closer to selection after being included in Brazil’s provisional 55-man squad. Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. Their campaign will begin against Morocco on 13 June at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.