Brazil head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has issued a strong warning that star forwards Vinicius Junior and Neymar risk being left out of the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup if they fail to reach full fitness and maintain consistent form.
Speaking in an interview with Esporte Record, Ancelotti made it clear that reputation alone will not guarantee any player a place in his World Cup team, stressing that only those performing at peak level will be selected.
“There are many very good players, and I need to choose those who are at 100%,” the Italian manager said. “It’s not just Neymar. It could be Vinicius too. If Vinicius is at 90%, I will call up another player who is at 100% because the competition especially in attack is extremely high.”
The Brazil national team is currently blessed with an abundance of attacking talent, and Ancelotti suggested that no player, regardless of status, is exempt from competition.
Since taking over as Brazil coach last summer, Ancelotti has not called up Neymar, who has been dealing with recurring injuries and inconsistent game time. As a result, the former captain has now missed eight consecutive matches for the Seleção under the new management.
Vinicius Jr., on the other hand, has had periods of impressive form but has also struggled with injuries, raising concerns about his ability to maintain the physical level Ancelotti demands.
With the World Cup less than a year away, Ancelotti’s comments appear to be a message to all players with fitness, sharpness and consistency the only reason to be included, he said further that not fame will determine who makes the final squad.
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