Is Neymar’s Absence a Major Blow to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Hopes Under Ancelotti?
Neymar’s Brazil National Team Absence Sparks Concerns Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Neymar’s recurring injuries have sidelined him from the Brazil national team for almost two years, raising serious concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti announced that Brazil’s all-time top scorer encountered a “slight setback” in training, allegedly a thigh issue. Especially with Brazil already qualified, he emphasised his withdrawal from the upcoming World Cup qualifiers is not a big deal.
Brazil’s squad for the final World Cup qualifiers includes a combination of experienced players and rising stars, emphasised by the return of West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá after being cleared of betting allegations.
Chelsea’s in-form striker João Pedro has secured a call-up to the Brazil national team, thanks to his impressive club form and decisive goals in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Ancelotti’s selection blends youth with experience as he prepares for Qatar 2026. Suspended Vinicius Jr. will miss the Chile clash and be rested for Bolivia, creating opportunities for other attackers to shine.
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti has blended experience with youth by calling up key Premier League stars like Gabriel Martinelli, Andrey Santos, Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes to strengthen Brazil’s squad.
