'It was a technical decision' - Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti explains Neymar’s omission from World Cup qualifiers

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar’s omission from his latest squad was a deliberate technical decision, not a matter of fitness.

“It was a technical decision based on many factors,” the Italian manager explained ahead of Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against Chile.

The call means Neymar’s wait for another cap continues - his last appearance for the Seleção came back on Oct. 18, 2023. Despite enjoying one of his best stretches of form in years, the forward was left out once again, a choice that Neymar himself suggested was not due to injury. 

Although Ancelotti mentioned it was a technical decision, the coach emphasized that physical condition was central to his evaluation of all players in the national team pool. 

“Nobody can question Neymar’s technical ability. What we assess every day, and for every match, is physical fitness. That applies not just to him, but to everyone,” Ancelotti said.

While he didn’t go into specific names, the veteran manager admitted he already has a clear picture of the squad he wants for the 2026 World Cup. Out of nearly 70 players under consideration, those who secure a spot will be the ones in top condition and capable of fitting seamlessly into the collective system.

“We’ll look at quality, yes, but also at being 100 percent fit and being able to play for the team rather than individually,” he said.

Since returning to Santos earlier this year, Neymar has featured in 20 matches, scoring six goals and providing three assists.

Brazil, already assured of a World Cup spot, face Chile on Thursday and Bolivia on Sept. 9. At the moment, they sit third in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 25 points.