Neymar hasn’t played for the national team since October 2023.
Carlo Ancelotti has stated that Neymar’s future with the Brazil national team depends on his physical fitness.
Details: The Brazil head coach mentioned that Neymar could play a crucial role in the upcoming World Cup, but he must first demonstrate that he is in peak physical condition.
Neymar disagreed with Ancelotti, saying he was not selected for the September World Cup qualifiers due to “technical reasons,” not fitness issues.
“It’s the coach’s decision, and I respect it,” the forward said.
Nonetheless, Ancelotti stressed that the player’s physical condition, rather than his talent, will influence his place in the squad:
“Everyone knows about his skill, but in modern football, to utilize that talent, a player must be fit.”
The Italian coach also pointed out that Neymar may no longer be suitable for playing on the wing and could be more effective as an attacking midfielder or forward.
Brazil qualified for the 2026 World Cup in June, but they ended their qualifying campaign with a loss to Bolivia (0-1), finishing fifth in the standings.
Reminder: South Africa and Brazil might play a friendly match.
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