‘It was a technical decision’: Ancelotti explains Neymar omission

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar's absence from his latest squad was a deliberate technical decision rather than a question of fitness.

"It was a technical decision based on many factors," Ancelotti explained ahead of tomorrow's World Cup qualifier against Chile in Rio. "Nobody can question Neymar's talent, but we evaluate fitness every day, for every player."

Neymar's omission means his wait for another international appearance continues. The forward, who last played for Brazil on October 18, 2023, has been enjoying one of his best spells of form in years since returning to Santos. 

He himself downplayed fitness concerns, insisting after Santos' 0-0 draw with Fluminense that he was fully fit. "It was a technical decision, it had nothing to do with my physical condition," Neymar told reporters.

Ancelotti, however, stressed that physical readiness remains central to his selections. "Quality is important, but being 100 percent fit and contributing to the collective is what matters most," he said.

The Italian coach revealed that nearly 70 players are in contention for places in the Seleçao, though he already has a "consolidated group" in mind for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. 

"The biggest mistake would be to get the list of 26 wrong," he noted. "It has been 24 years since Brazil last won the World Cup. The responsibility is enormous, but the motivation of an entire country can also make a big difference."

Neymar's exclusion is not the only headline decision. Ancelotti also left out Real Madrid stars Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo, making this an unusually experimental squad for September's fixtures.

Brazil face Chile at the Maracanã on September 5 before traveling to La Paz to take on Bolivia at high altitude on September 10. The Seleçao currently sit third in the South American qualifying standings, level on points with Ecuador, while Argentina lead the group.

Brazil's path has been turbulent, marked by Dorival Junior's sacking after a heavy defeat to Argentina, followed by Ancelotti's low-key start: a draw with Ecuador and a narrow win over Paraguay. Still, with qualification virtually secured, the focus is now firmly on shaping a side capable of ending the World Cup drought in 2026.