Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Neymar could still make Brazil’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite leaving the star forward out of the latest Seleção call-up.
Ancelotti explained that Neymar was not selected because he is yet to return to full fitness, stressing that the national team currently needs players who are at their best physically.
“I didn’t call Neymar now because he’s not 100 percent. We need players who are at their best to help the Seleção,” Ancelotti said while addressing the media.
However, the Italian manager made it clear that the door remains open for the Brazilian superstar if he regains full form before the final squad decision.
“It’s still possible. Neymar has to keep working, playing and showing his qualities and a good physical condition,” he added.
Reacting to the decision, Neymar admitted he was disappointed but vowed to keep pushing in hopes of making Brazil’s final squad.
“I’m upset, sad, but my full focus remains day after day, training after training, game after game. There’s still one final call left. The dream lives on and we are going to achieve our goal,” Neymar said.
The 32-year-old forward has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, which has affected his availability for both club and country. Despite this, he remains one of Brazil’s most influential players and will be hoping to prove his fitness before the final squad list for the FIFA World Cup is confirmed.
