Overview
- Brazil named a 26-man roster for friendlies against France in Boston on March 26 and Croatia in Orlando on March 31, the last matches before the final World Cup list is announced, with May 18 reported as the date.
- The coach said he excluded Neymar because he is not 100% fit, stressing a physical rather than technical evaluation and insisting selection requires players at full capacity.
- Teenage forward Endrick was recalled and Brentford striker Igor Thiago received his first call-up as Brazil tests fresher attacking options.
- Neymar has not played for Brazil since tearing his ACL and meniscus in October 2023, sat out a Mirassol match scouts attended due to muscle fatigue, then played 90 minutes in a subdued 1-1 draw with Corinthians.
- After the omission, Neymar said he was upset and sad but vowed to keep working to force his way into the final World Cup squad, with Ancelotti keeping the door open if he proves full fitness.