The "Samba" just got a little more tactical. In a move that has sent shockwaves from Rio to Riyadh, Carlo Ancelotti has officially left Neymar Jr. out of the Brazilian national team for their final high-profile friendlies against France and Croatia.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America just three months away, this wasn't just a squad announcement—it was a statement. Ancelotti is signaling that for the Seleção to finally end their 24-year trophy drought, reputation will no longer be enough.
The "Ancelotti Ultimatum": Fitness Over Fame
The exclusion of Neymar is even more surprising given his recent activity. The 34-year-old played a full 90 minutes for Santos just yesterday, recording an assist.
However, Ancelotti—who has been monitoring the forward's recovery from a recurring thigh issue—remains unconvinced.
"Neymar can be at the World Cup if he's 100 percent. I didn't call him up because he is not at that level yet. To wear this shirt in a tournament of this magnitude, you have to be training and playing at the highest intensity every single day." — Carlo Ancelotti
Neymar expressed his disappointment during a broadcast later that evening, admitting he was "upset and sad" but vowed to use the next two months to prove he is ready for the final 26-man roster reveal in May.
The Return of the Prodigy: Endrick’s "Lyon Resurrection"
While one icon steps out, a future legend steps back in. Endrick has been recalled to the squad after a year-long absence. The 19-year-old’s loan move to Olympique
Lyon has been a masterstroke; since January, he has recorded 6 goals and 3 assists in 12 games, playing with a physical maturity that convinced Ancelotti he is ready to lead the line.
Endrick’s inclusion is part of a broader youth movement. Ancelotti has also handed maiden call-ups to Igor Thiago (Brentford) and Rayan (Bournemouth), rewarding their explosive form in the Premier League.
Key Stat: This is the first time in three years that Brazil will face two Top-10 FIFA-ranked teams back-to-back without Neymar in the squad.
Tactical Analysis: A Faster, Meaner Brazil?
By dropping Neymar and including high-pressing forwards like Igor Thiago and Endrick, Ancelotti is shifting Brazil toward a more vertical, European-style 4-3-3.
High Press: Without Neymar’s lower defensive work rate, Brazil can now press from the front, a necessity when facing the midfield engines of France and Croatia.
Width and Pace: With Vini Jr. on the left and Raphinha on the right, the focus is on isolating full-backs in 1v1 situations.
The #9 Choice: For the first time in years, Brazil has a genuine battle for the striker position. Does Ancelotti go with the raw power of Igor Thiago or the generational brilliance of Endrick?