Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of the Brazil national team, confirmed that star player Neymar Jr. remains part of his plans for the “Selecao,” but emphasized that his international participation depends on reaching peak physical fitness after a series of injuries that kept him off the field for extended periods.

Speaking at a press conference held in Tokyo, Japan’s capital, ahead of the friendly match against Japan, Ancelotti said Neymar “is capable of giving his best for the national team when he is in good physical condition, as he has the talent to play for any team in the world.”

He added, “Neymar is an exceptional player, and when he is physically ready, he always makes a difference, whether with Brazil or any other club.”

Neymar is currently recovering from a grade two injury to the right rectus femoris muscle, which he sustained during training with Santos club, and is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks.

The Brazilian club has not officially announced the duration of his absence, but local reports suggest he may not return before the end of November, during the final stages of the Brazilian league, where Santos is fighting to avoid relegation.

Based on his current physical condition, Neymar will not be able to participate in Brazil’s upcoming two friendlies in November 2025, which will be held in London and Paris against two African teams to be determined later, as part of the “Selecao’s” preparations for upcoming competitions.

Since returning to Santos in February, Neymar has missed long periods due to recurring muscle problems, having played only nine matches out of ten since the competitions resumed after the Club World Cup.

This marks his third absence since last March, in a series of setbacks that have hindered his return to his known level of performance.