Brazil national team head coach Carlo Ancelotti has explained the absence of star forwards Neymar and Rodrygo from the squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia in September.
Ancelotti named a 26-man squad on Monday, with several new faces including Kaio Jorge, Caio Henrique, Douglas Santos, João Pedro, and Luiz Henrique. Notably missing were Neymar, who is recovering from injury, and Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior, both suspended.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Ancelotti addressed the omissions: “Why didn’t I call up Rodrygo? I have a lot of love for him. He still has time to recover and return to the national team.”
Ancelotti emphasized that full fitness is a non-negotiable requirement for selection. “A player who plays for the national team must be at 100% physically. That’s a very important criterion. If someone isn’t fully fit, I can call up another player without any problem.”
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When asked if he had personally informed Rodrygo or Neymar of their exclusion, Ancelotti said communication wasn’t necessary. “Did I tell Rodrygo and Neymar why they weren’t called up? No. They know the expectations of the national team—play matches and be in top condition. I don’t need to explain it. If they want an explanation, they can call me. Rodrygo has my number. Neymar too.”
Brazil will face Chile and Bolivia next month as they continue their campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
