Neymar Jr has been left out of Brazil’s latest squad as head coach Carlo Ancelotti continues preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

 

Brazil will face France on March 26 in Boston before taking on Croatia on March 31 in Orlando as part of their build-up to the tournament, which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

 

Neymar’s omission comes after concerns over his fitness. The 34-year-old recently missed a match for Santos FC citing muscle fatigue. Ancelotti had planned to assess him during that game but decided not to include him after he failed to reach full match fitness.

 

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals has not played for the national team since he suffered a serious knee injury in October 2023. He returned to club football last year but has struggled to maintain consistent form and fitness.

 

Ancelotti made it clear that the forward still remains in contention for the World Cup. “Neymar can be at the World Cup if he's 100%,” he said. “I didn't call him up because he's not 100%. Neymar has to be training and playing.”

 

Neymar expressed disappointment over the decision but said he will stay focused on his recovery and performances.

 

In his absence, Brazil has turned to younger attacking options. Endrick returns to the squad, while Igor Thiago earns his first call-up.

 

Brazil will also play Egypt in June before opening their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13.