Ancelotti Faces Neymar Dilemma as Brazil Prepares for World Cup

Rio de Janeiro – Carlo Ancelotti is embracing the vibrant culture of Brazil, a crucial step, many believe, in understanding the nuances of the Seleção as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Spotted enjoying the festivities at the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, including a friendly exchange with football legend Ronaldo, the Italian coach is immersing himself in the heart of Brazilian life. But beneath the surface of celebration lies a significant sporting question: what to do about Neymar?

Ancelotti’s Carnival appearances weren’t limited to Rio. He as well visited the Sambódromo do Anhembi in São Paulo and attended a parade in Salvador, Bahia, where singer Léo Santana publicly urged him to include Neymar on the World Cup roster. Ancelotti responded with a smile, acknowledging the passionate plea. This public pressure underscores the complex situation facing the coach as he attempts to forge a winning team.

Neymar’s Fitness and Form: A Concern for Ancelotti

Santana’s call to action highlights a central dilemma for Ancelotti. Brazil’s recent 1-2 loss to France exposed vulnerabilities within the squad. Whereas boasting individual brilliance, particularly from Vinicius Jr., the team lacked the tactical cohesion displayed by the French. Unlike established footballing powers like Spain, France and Argentina, Brazil under Ancelotti is still developing a clear, consistent playing style. Ancelotti has reportedly been hesitant to include Neymar, whose fitness and form have been inconsistent while playing for Santos.

Despite his age – 34 – Neymar still possesses qualities that Brazil has missed, offering moments of brilliance and unpredictable playmaking. While he may not win every sprint duel, his ability to unlock defenses with a perfectly weighted pass could prove invaluable. As the saying goes, a World Cup can be won on moments of individual magic, and Neymar is certainly capable of providing those.

A World Cup, as demonstrated by Argentina’s triumph in 2022, isn’t solely about tactical rigidity. it’s also about embodying the spirit of a nation. And few players represent the Brazilian flair and passion quite like Neymar. He walks the line between genius and recklessness, a trait shared by past Brazilian greats like Romário and Ronaldinho, who often frustrated coaches with their unconventional approach.

Fan Demand and Ancelotti’s Measured Response

The demand for Neymar’s inclusion is palpable. Even during a visit to Foxborough, Massachusetts, Brazilian fans chanted “Olé, olé, olá, Neymar, Neymar” in support of the forward. Neymar himself acknowledged the fans’ affection, stating, “I’m happy for the affection.” Kylian Mbappé, his former teammate at Paris Saint-Germain, has also expressed his belief that a World Cup without Neymar is unimaginable.

Ancelotti, although, remains focused on the players who have been consistently performing. “We need to talk about the players who were here, who played and gave everything,” he stated after the match against France. “They faced the challenge and worked hard. I am satisfied, and now we will prepare for the game against Croatia.”

Results under Ancelotti have been mixed. Of his nine matches in charge since May of last year, he has secured four wins, suffered three losses, and drawn two. This record is a source of concern for a nation accustomed to success, and the team’s overall performance hasn’t been entirely convincing.

Vinicius Jr., who wore the iconic number 10 shirt against France, urged patience, acknowledging that Brazil isn’t currently among the tournament favorites. “But the importance of the games will unleash forces when it really matters,” he believes. “We just need to find ourselves. We will do everything to bring Brazil back to the top.” Vinicius Jr. Will likely have a say in whether Neymar returns to the squad.

Neymar hasn’t played for Brazil since October 2023. If Brazil struggles in their upcoming friendly against Croatia on Tuesday, March 26th (2:00 AM MESZ on DAZN), the pressure on Ancelotti to reconsider Neymar’s inclusion will intensify. Neymar himself has stated his belief that he is indispensable, saying, “I understand what qualities I have and what strength I possess on the field. And I know what I can still bring. It’s clear that I want to be at the World Cup, and it’s clear that motivates me.”

The situation presents a delicate balancing act for Ancelotti. He must weigh the tactical considerations, Neymar’s current form, and the immense pressure from fans and the media. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the iconic forward will once again don the yellow shirt of Brazil on the world’s biggest stage.

Brazil’s next confirmed test comes against Croatia on Tuesday, March 26th. Following that match, Ancelotti will announce his final squad for the World Cup on May 18th. The world will be watching to notice if the legendary number 10 will be included.

What are your thoughts? Should Ancelotti include Neymar in the squad? Share your opinions in the comments below.