Brazil is heading to Bolivia to complete their participation in the Conmebol 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, already having secured their place in the tournament. However, the absence of star forwards Neymar and Vinicius Jr surprised many.
For Brazil’s last two qualifiers, head coach Carlo Ancelotti made the unexpected decision to exclude both stars, providing clear reasons for their omission.
Vinicius Jr. did not play in the previous match against Chile due to suspension. With Brazil already qualified for the World Cup, Ancelotti and his team chose not to risk him in the match against Bolivia.
Regarding Neymar, the Santos forward was left out for technical reasons. Ancelotti stated that this choice would help Neymar regain his best physical condition before he returns to the national team.
Neymar’s last match with Brazil took place on October 17, 2023, in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. (Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)
Controversy over Neymar’s exclusion
The decision to leave Neymar out of the squad raised questions after conflicting statements from Ancelotti and the player himself. Ancelotti initially indicated Neymar’s absence was due to a minor muscle issue, but Neymar stated he was fully fit.
“Neymar is not in this call-up because he had a small issue last week, but no tests were needed. Everyone knows Neymar, the national team, and the Brazilian fans. Like everyone else, he needs to be in top physical shape to help the team perform well and give his best at the World Cup,” said Ancelotti during a press conference before the game against Chile.
However, Neymar contradicted that explanation following a league match, saying, “I think they left me out for technical reasons; I don’t believe it had anything to do with my physical condition.”
After Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Chile, Ancelotti reaffirmed that Neymar’s omission was due to coaching decisions. “I took it normally. It was a technical decision,” Ancelotti stated when asked about Neymar’s comments. “Physical condition is an important factor for us. Nobody questions Neymar’s technical ability, but what we evaluate every day and in every match is fitness — and that applies to Neymar, just like everyone else.”