Neymar dropped as Brazil announce 26-man squad

With little time remaining before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has begun final assessments for team formation through the March FIFA window friendlies.

On Monday night, March 16, he announced a 26-member strong squad for the upcoming matches against France and Croatia.

The major surprise in the announced squad is the absence of poster boy Neymar Junior. Although he was included in the preliminary list, he has ultimately been dropped due to fitness issues. He has not been seen on the field for Santos recently either. Rodrygo Goes, whose World Cup dream has already ended due to injury, is also not in this list. Eder Militao, Bruno Guimaraes and Estevao have also been kept out of the squad due to injuries.

Youth dominates Ancelotti's squad this time. Alongside wonderkid Endrick, Leo Pereira, Gabriel Sara, Igor Thiago and Ryan have received their first-ever call-ups to the national team. Additionally, defender Ibanez and experienced Danilo have returned to the squad.

In selecting the team, Ancelotti has prioritised players' recent fitness. He has stated that he wants to find the best combination for the World Cup through these friendlies. Regarding giving opportunities to newcomers, he said, "Our main focus now is to see how they can adapt to the national team environment."

The five-time world champions will face France in Boston on March 26 and Croatia in Orlando on March 31.

Brazil squad for France and Croatia friendlies:

Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento, Ederson

Defenders: Alex Sandro, Bremer, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Ibanez, Leo Pereira, Marquinhos, Wesley

Midfielders: Andre Santos, Casemiro, Danilo, Fabinho, Gabriel Sara

Forwards: Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Joao Pedro, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Ryan, Vinicius Junior