Neymar Brazil Squad Omission Confirmed as Endrick Joins 26-Man Roster

Carlo Ancelotti has excluded Neymar from the latest Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, citing fitness concerns for the 79-goal scorer.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has finalized a 26-man roster for upcoming friendlies in the United States, notably excluding all-time leading scorer Neymar. The 34-year-old Santos forward, who has netted 79 goals for his country, remains sidelined from international duty following a 2023 ACL and meniscus tear. While the veteran was omitted, Lyon striker Endrick earned his first selection under Ancelotti’s tenure after recording six goals in 12 appearances since his winter move from Real Madrid. The squad also features a debut call-up for Brentford’s Igor Thiago, as Brazil prepares for a March 26 clash against France in Boston and a March 31 fixture against Croatia in Orlando.

Neymar’s exclusion follows a 90-minute performance for Santos in a 1-1 draw against Corinthians on Sunday. Despite playing the full duration of that match in front of two national team assistants, the forward failed to secure a spot in the traveling party. This follows a midweek fixture where Ancelotti personally observed the striker from the stands. The coach stated on Monday that the former Barcelona star is currently not at 100 percent of his physical capability. Ancelotti emphasized that the door remains open for the May 18 final World Cup roster announcement, provided the player maintains his physical condition and continues to showcase his qualities in domestic play.

Tactical Shifts and New Offensive Options

With Neymar absent, the Brazilian attack will be spearheaded by Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior and Barcelona’s Raphinha. The offensive depth is further bolstered by Chelsea’s João Pedro and Matheus Cunha of Manchester United. Ancelotti highlighted the inclusion of Bournemouth’s Rayan and Flamengo’s Danilo as players who earned their positions through strong performances in their respective leagues. The midfield sees a significant change as Lucas Paquetá, who recently moved to Flamengo from West Ham United, has been left out. However, veteran leadership remains present through Manchester United’s Casemiro.

Igor Thiago’s inclusion marks a significant milestone for the Brentford man, joining a forward line that includes Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli and Zenit’s Luiz Henrique. The midfield group tasked with supporting this attack consists of Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, Al-Ittihad’s Fabinho, and Gabriel Sara of Galatasaray. Botafogo’s Danilo also secures a spot in the central third. These selections represent the final opportunities for players to impress before the definitive World Cup list is published in mid-May.

Defensive Structure and Goalkeeping Roster

Ancelotti has selected a defensive unit featuring three players from Flamengo: Alex Sandro, Léo Pereira, and Danilo. They are joined by European-based stalwarts including Marquinhos of PSG, Juventus’ Bremer, and Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães. The backline is completed by Zenit’s Douglas Santos, Al-Ahly’s Ibañez, and Roma’s Wesley. In goal, Liverpool’s Alisson leads a trio that includes Al Nassr’s Bento and Fenerbahce’s Éderson. This defensive core will be tested in the United States friendlies before Brazil opens its World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 in Group C, which also features Haiti and Scotland.

Ancelotti’s Contract Extension and Future Plans

The Brazil federation is moving to secure Ancelotti’s leadership beyond the immediate tournament cycle. The Italian tactician confirmed on Monday that he is set to sign a new contract extending his stay through the 2030 World Cup. Ancelotti noted that the extension would likely be made official either before or after the upcoming tournament this summer. He quipped that signing the deal before the World Cup would be "cheaper" for the federation, expressing high confidence in the team's mental and technical preparation.

Brazil's objective remains arriving at the June 13 opener in peak condition. The exclusion of Neymar at this stage highlights Ancelotti's strict adherence to physical readiness. Since the coach took over in June, he has prioritized players in active form, such as Endrick and the debutant Igor Thiago. The upcoming matches in Boston and Orlando serve as the final tactical rehearsals before the five-time world champions begin their quest for another title.