Overview
- Brazil left Neymar out of the March friendlies against France in Boston and Croatia in Orlando, with the squad leaning on younger attackers such as Endrick, Igor Thiago and Vinicius.
- Neymar shared footage of his real‑time reaction to the announcement, saying "Hey, Ancelotti, what about me?" before pledging to keep training and be ready if called.
- The coach reiterated that selection depends on players being at 100% fitness and kept the door open for Neymar to make the World Cup list if he proves readiness in the coming weeks.
- The 34‑year‑old said this will be his final World Cup and acknowledged sadness over the omission, having not played for Brazil since an ACL injury in October 2023 and after recent fitness management at Santos, including a missed match due to muscle fatigue.
- Neymar’s agent, Pini Zahavi, publicly urged Brazil not to "give up the heart of Brazil," expressing confidence that Ancelotti will not exclude the forward if he is fit.