Neymar has expressed his disappointment after being overlooked for Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil squad, with footage emerging online capturing his candid reaction to the announcement. The Brazilian Football Confederation revealed its roster on Monday for the upcoming international fixtures against France and Croatia, a list that conspicuously omitted the 34-year-old forward. This decision marks a continuation of Neymar’s absence from the national team, which began following the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he sustained during a match against Uruguay in late 2023.
A video shared by EuroFoot appears to show Neymar receiving treatment while simultaneously watching the squad announcement unfold. The moment he realises his name is not on the list is met with evident frustration.
Speaking in the circulated clip, Neymar voiced his sentiments directly, saying, “Hey Ancelotti, what about me? The national team has just been announced. We were not called up. I’m sad obviously. That’s what I said yesterday.
“I’ll always root for the national team and everything’s fine.
“Now it’s time to keep working, keep improving in everything and if there’s an opportunity, be prepared. I was upset you know, I was sad. Now I’m sad but for me, it’s a done deal.
“Tomorrow I have to stop being sad. I need to work, train, play, so if an opportunity arises to be at the World Cup, I’m prepared.”
Neymar, who stands as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with a remarkable 79 goals in 128 appearances, recently made a return to his boyhood club, Santos, after significant stints with European giants Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. His omission from the squad comes despite widespread speculation that he might be recalled to the national setup following his recovery from injury.
Ancelotti’s Selection Strategy
Instead of recalling established stars like Neymar, Ancelotti has opted to include several less-experienced attacking talents. Among those called up are Brentford striker Igor Thiago, Bournemouth prospect Rayan, and Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara. The defensive contingent also sees the inclusion of experienced players like Danilo and Leo Pereira.
Another notable exclusion from the squad is Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison, who featured prominently in Brazil’s final fixture at the previous World Cup.
Even with the absence of several key figures, Brazil’s squad still boasts an impressive array of attacking talent. Players such as Raphinha, Vinicius Jr., Joao Pedro, Matheus Cunha, Endrick, and Gabriel Martinelli are all set to feature, showcasing the depth of talent available to the national team.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
With the 2026 World Cup set to adopt an expanded 48-team format, Neymar’s potential return to the national team remains a subject of considerable uncertainty. However, his own words indicate a strong desire and commitment to continue working towards regaining his place in the squad, suggesting that his international career is far from over.
