Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of the Brazil national team, confirmed that the decision to exclude Neymar from the “Seleção” squad for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Chile is solely due to technical and physical considerations, explaining that full fitness is a fundamental requirement for joining the team.

The Italian coach clarified that Neymar’s absence is not related to his great technical value but rather to his physical readiness, emphasizing that his evaluation follows the same criteria applied to all players. He added that the team has more than 70 qualified players, providing the coaching staff with multiple options.

Ancelotti praised the team’s performance against Paraguay, highlighting the balance between defensive strength and attacking capabilities, and confirmed his aim to replicate that against Chile. He stressed that the goal is to play enjoyable attacking football without compromising defensive discipline.

The Italian coach spoke about his feelings before facing Chile at the Maracanã Stadium, describing playing there as an “exceptional experience,” and confirmed he will cherish this moment as it is his first time inside this historic stadium.

Ancelotti emphasized that calling up any player to the national team depends on 100% physical fitness in addition to team performance, explaining that some players may not have high individual abilities but their harmony with the group makes them more useful.

He touched on striker João Pedro, noting that he will return to the pure striker position against Chile after recently playing as a playmaker with Chelsea, while the player who will support him from behind will be determined.

Ancelotti concluded his statements by confirming that Brazil is in the final stages of preparation for the World Cup, stressing the importance of making the best use of this period to avoid mistakes, adding: “It is time for Brazil to reclaim the World Cup title, and we feel a great responsibility to achieve that.”