Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his decision to omit Neymar from the latest national team squad, saying he respects everyone's opinion. The move has drawn sharp criticism from former Brazil strikers Romario and Ronaldo, who argue the 34-year-old's talent is too valuable to waste ahead of the World Cup. Ancelotti cited fitness concerns for leaving out the country's record goalscorer.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti faced questions on Tuesday about excluding Neymar from the squad for upcoming friendlies against France on Thursday and Croatia next week. The 34-year-old Santos striker, Brazil's record goalscorer, has not featured for the national team since October 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee. Ongoing fitness issues prompted Ancelotti's decision, placing Neymar's World Cup hopes in doubt ahead of the final squad announcement on May 18 for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Neymar expressed his 'upset and sadness' last week over the omission but pledged to keep fighting for a spot. Ancelotti responded calmly: 'I observe and hear everything that is said about Neymar. It’s normal. Everyone can have an opinion on football. There is no clear science. I have to respect everyone’s opinion.' The choice has sparked backlash from Brazil legends. Romario, now a politician in Rio de Janeiro, insisted: 'A star player has to play. The national team is the place for the best and most talented players. Preparation for the World Cup lasts a month and that’s sufficient time for an athlete to recover... It is better to have a star player like Neymar, even when he is not at 100 per cent, than to call up any other player. Talent must not be wasted... Pay attention Carlo Ancelotti.' Ronaldo echoed the sentiment, stating: 'If Neymar is physically fit, I would take him to the World Cup. Perhaps he will not play every match, but he is a player who has already proven his worth everywhere he has been.' Ancelotti, formerly of Real Madrid, continues to prioritize fitness as Brazil prepares for the global showpiece.
