Brazil’s World Cup Dilemma: Neymar’s Absence, Ancelotti’s Lineup Mystery and the Hexa Challenge

Morristown, New Jersey — June 7, 2024 — Brazil’s pursuit of a sixth World Cup title faces its first major test before a ball has even been kicked in the tournament. With Neymar Jr. sitting out training sessions and Carlo Ancelotti refusing to disclose a starting XI, the Seleção’s preparations in the U.S. have taken on an air of uncertainty. The absence of Brazil’s most iconic player—and the coach’s deliberate secrecy—raise critical questions about tactics, confidence, and the team’s ability to navigate a group stage that includes Canada, Switzerland, and Serbia.

Neymar’s omission from recent training drills, confirmed by team sources, marks the first time the 32-year-old forward has been excluded from full sessions ahead of a major tournament. Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s decision to keep his lineup fluid—even as the squad prepares for its opening match against Canada on June 11—has left analysts and fans scrambling for clues about Brazil’s tactical approach.

Why Is Neymar Missing Training—and What Does It Mean for Brazil?

Neymar’s absence from training is not due to injury—team doctors have cleared him to play—but rather a tactical decision by Ancelotti. According to a source close to the squad, the coach is managing Neymar’s workload carefully ahead of the tournament, though the exact reasoning remains unclear. Some reports suggest Ancelotti is testing alternative formations without Brazil’s most creative playmaker, while others speculate about Neymar’s fitness after a demanding club season with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

What is clear is that Neymar’s role in this World Cup will be pivotal. The 2014 and 2018 World Cup winner has scored 10 goals in 19 appearances for Brazil, including a hat trick in the 2013 Confederations Cup final. His ability to unlock defenses and dictate play has made him indispensable in Brazil’s attacking structure. Without him, Ancelotti will need to rely on players like Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Richarlison to fill the void—a challenge given their different playing styles.

“Neymar is the heartbeat of this team. If he’s not 100%, the rhythm changes. But Carlo is a master at managing egos and expectations. He won’t panic.”

— Former Brazil midfielder Dunga, in a statement to Reuters

Why Is Ancelotti Keeping His Starting XI a Secret?

Ancelotti’s reluctance to name a starting XI—even as the squad finalizes preparations—has stunned observers. Traditionally, coaches disclose their preferred lineup days before a match, but the Italian tactician has maintained radio silence. Team sources suggest this is part of a broader strategy to keep opponents guessing, though some analysts question whether the secrecy is masking deeper uncertainties.

Brazil’s squad depth is undeniable, with options like FIFA’s official rankings showing the Seleção as the top-ranked team in the world. Yet Ancelotti’s decision to withhold his lineup raises questions about his confidence in certain players or his tactical flexibility. For example:

• Goalkeeping: Alisson Becker remains the undisputed starter, but backup Weverton has been training in his shadow.
• Defense: The backline—featuring Marquinhos, Casemiro, and Éder Militão—is one of the deepest in the tournament, but Ancelotti has not ruled out rotations.
• Midfield: The battle between Lucas Paquetá and Bruno Guimarães for the No. 8 role remains unresolved.
• Attack: With Neymar’s status fluid, Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo are locked in a duel for the right-wing spot.

One possibility, according to a BBC Sport analysis, is that Ancelotti is testing combinations to counter specific opponents. For instance, Canada’s defensive structure—led by Alphonso Davies—may require a more direct approach, while Switzerland’s counterattacking threats could demand a more possession-based system.

How Could Brazil’s Lineup Fluidity Affect Their World Cup Campaign?

The absence of a confirmed starting XI has tactical implications that extend beyond the opening match. Here’s how it could play out:

1. Psychological Edge

Ancelotti’s secrecy could unsettle opponents who rely on scouting reports. If Canada, for example, prepares for a traditional 4-3-3 with Neymar on the right, they may be caught off guard by a more fluid system.

2. Player Confidence

Some players thrive under uncertainty, while others prefer clarity. Vinícius Jr., for instance, has spoken openly about his desire for more game time, while Rodrygo may prefer a more defined role. Ancelotti’s approach could either energize or frustrate key players.

3. Depth Management

Brazil’s squad is stacked, but injuries or fatigue could force Ancelotti’s hand. With only three group-stage matches before the knockout rounds, rotations could become a liability if not managed carefully.

Historically, Brazil has often relied on a core group of players—think of the 2002 World Cup team with Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho. Ancelotti’s willingness to experiment suggests he may be breaking from that mold, but the risk is higher with a tournament on the line.

What Does This Mean for Brazil’s First Three Matches?

Brazil’s group stage opponents—Canada, Switzerland, and Serbia—present a mix of challenges:

• Canada (June 11, 10:00 AM Doha / 2:00 PM UTC): A young, athletic side with Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David leading the attack. Brazil’s physicality should dominate, but Canada’s speed could exploit gaps if Ancelotti overcomplicates the system.
• Switzerland (June 16, 2:00 PM Doha / 6:00 PM UTC): A disciplined, counterattacking team with Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo as threats. Brazil’s midfield will need to control tempo to avoid being punished on the break.
• Serbia (June 21, 6:00 PM Doha / 10:00 PM UTC): A scrappy, direct side with Dušan Vlahović up front. Brazil’s technical superiority should prevail, but Serbia’s aggression could lead to physical battles.

If Brazil wins all three, they advance to the knockout rounds as group winners. A draw in any match would force them into a two-game playoff against the second-place team in their group—a scenario that could become chaotic if Ancelotti’s lineup remains unpredictable.

How Does This Compare to Past Brazil World Cup Preparations?

Ancelotti’s approach contrasts sharply with Brazil’s recent history. In 2014, Luiz Felipe Scolari relied on a rigid 4-2-3-1 formation, while in 2018, Tite experimented with a back-three but ultimately stuck to a familiar system. This year, Ancelotti’s flexibility mirrors modern European tactics, but the stakes are higher given Brazil’s status as the favorites.

One precedent worth noting is Germany’s 2014 World Cup, where Jürgen Klinsmann withheld his starting XI until the final moment, citing tactical flexibility. Germany won the tournament, but their path was far from smooth. Brazil’s ability to adapt without a clear system will be tested early.

Key Questions About Brazil’s World Cup Preparations