Neymar named in Brazil preliminary squad, injury threatens WC spot

Brazilian forward Neymar has been named in Brazil's preliminary squad for the final two friendlies against France and Croatia ahead of the World Cup. The 34-year-old footballer was included in the preliminary list by national team coach Carlo Ancelotti. However, a fresh injury concern has now emerged.

The Santos forward has been given another opportunity ahead of the 2026 World Cup. But Ancelotti wants to observe him directly, which puts the Santos forward under pressure. The Italian coach wanted to see him play ahead of the friendlies and was scheduled to travel from Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo today (Tuesday) to watch the player in action. But Ancelotti has been left disappointed.

Neymar will miss Santos' Brazilian Championship match against Mirassol on Tuesday due to chronic muscle fatigue. Santos has stated that Neymar's absence is a precautionary measure. However, the timing is highly unfortunate as Brazil coach Ancelotti wanted to see the 34-year-old star play.

Sources close to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the national team's technical committee told Reuters that Neymar's exclusion from Tuesday's match has surprised and disappointed both the CBF and Ancelotti. This could impact the World Cup as well, as the Brazil coach was unable to observe the Brazilian superstar before the preparatory matches.

Ancelotti has made it clear that he will only include players who are fully fit and can match Brazil's physical demands. Brazil's friendlies against France and Croatia are scheduled for March 26 and 31. Ancelotti will announce the squad on March 16. He missed his final opportunity to assess Neymar before that. Neymar, who last donned the Brazil jersey in October 2023, may have to pay the price for this.