Ancelotti Admits Neymar World Cup 2026 Decision Is Not Easy as Brazil Finalise 26-Man Squad

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that selecting or omitting Neymar from Brazil’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup is among the most difficult calls he faces as national team manager. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Reuters, the Italian coach outlined the multiple factors influencing his thinking ahead of the May 18 deadline, when Brazil’s provisional 55-man group must be reduced to the tournament roster.

“When you have to choose, you need to take many things into consideration,” Ancelotti said. “Neymar is an important player for this country because of the talent he has always shown. He has had some problems, and he is working hard to recover. He has improved a lot recently and is playing regularly.”

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer, is currently 34 years old and has been included in the provisional 55-man pool. However, a place in the final squad is far from secured. His time at Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal was heavily disrupted by recurring injuries, and while his return to boyhood club Santos has produced glimpses of his former quality, his durability at the highest level remains a subject of scrutiny.

“Obviously, for me it’s not an easy decision,” Ancelotti continued. “We have to carefully weigh the pros and cons, but that doesn’t put pressure on me. We’ve been evaluating not only Neymar but also all the players for a year now.”

Beyond fitness and form, Ancelotti acknowledged the broader dynamics that Neymar’s potential inclusion or exclusion would create within the squad environment. The coach noted that several Brazil players have voiced their support for having the forward in the group — a consideration he does not dismiss.

“I know perfectly well that Neymar is very well-liked, not only by the public, but also by the players,” Ancelotti said. “That’s also a factor, because we have to take into account the atmosphere that will surround Neymar’s call-up. It’s not like I’m going to drop a bomb in the locker room. He is very well-liked, very loved.”

Despite welcoming input from those around him, Ancelotti was clear that the final call rests with him alone. “I think it’s normal for the players to express their opinion. I am grateful to everyone who gave me advice… But, in the end, the right person to make this decision, the most suitable person to do so, is myself.”

Neymar has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, making him the nation’s record scorer. He was a central figure in Brazil’s squads for the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups, though injury cut short his involvement in the latter two tournaments. Should he be selected for 2026, it would likely represent his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

Brazil are set to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, giving the Seleção a measure of home-continent advantage and elevating the significance of every squad selection decision. Ancelotti, appointed to the role in January 2024, has consistently stated that squad cohesion and competitive fitness are his primary selection criteria. The final 26-man roster will be announced on May 18.