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2h ago

Ancelotti Says Neymar Has Two Months to Prove World Cup Fitness

Brazil’s coach set a strict fitness bar that puts the star’s selection in doubt unless he reaches full match readiness.

Croatia v Brazil: Quarter Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Soccer Football - International Friendly - Brazil v Senegal - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - November 15, 2024 Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti walks off for half time REUTERS/Isabel Infantes/File Photo
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Carlo Ancelotti and Neymar.

Overview

  • Ancelotti, in a Saturday interview with L'Équipe, said Neymar remains in contention and has two months to show he is ready for the 2026 World Cup.
  • He repeated that he will only pick players who are 100% physically fit for Brazil’s 26-man squad.
  • Neymar has not played for Brazil since an October 2023 knee injury and has been easing back at Santos, where he has started scoring again.
  • He was left out of last month’s warm-up friendlies, and after the 2-1 loss to France in Boston fans chanted his name as Ancelotti urged focus on those selected.
  • Brazil plans to announce its squad on May 18, and Goal.com reports US outlets say his camp has held preliminary talks with MLS club FC Cincinnati, which remains unconfirmed.