Carlo Ancelotti, coach of the Brazil national team, excluded striker Neymar from his squad for the matches against Chile and Bolivia at the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, continuing the Santos star’s absence from the Seleção since October 2023.

Ancelotti explained that Neymar’s recent muscle injury forced his exclusion, saying: “The two matches require players in full readiness, and Neymar still needs time.”

Despite his return this season to his original club Santos and scoring 6 goals and assisting 6 in 19 matches, the scene of his crying after the heavy 0-6 loss to Vasco last Sunday reflected the pressure he faces.

The Brazil roster included experienced names such as Alisson, Marquinhos, and Casemiro, alongside promising talents like Estêvão (Chelsea), and the return of Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), while the team enters the matches already qualified for the World Cup.