“The head coach of the Brazilian national team emphasized that past merits and star status do not guarantee a place in the bid for the upcoming World Cup.”, — write: football.ua
The head coach of the Brazilian national team emphasized that past merits and star status do not guarantee a place in the bid for the upcoming World Cup.
Carlo Ancelotti Getty Images December 02, 2025, 5:20 p.m
The Italian specialist made it clear: in order to get into the squad for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico, the players must be in perfect physical shape.
In an interview with Esporte Record, Ancelotti emphasized that the high level of competition in the attacking line of the Seleção leaves no room for compromises. The player must be 100% ready.
“We have a lot of very good performers, I have to choose those who are at the peak of their form. It’s not just Neymar, it can also be Vinicius,” Ancelotti said.
The coach was as specific as possible in his position regarding the leader of Real Madrid:
“If Vinicius is 90% ready, I will call another player who is 100% ready. This is a team with a very high level of competition, especially in attack,” Carlo emphasized.
The situation with Neymar remains even more complicated. After returning to his native Santos, the 33-year-old forward continues to struggle with injuries. Ancelotti noted that the door is not closed for the legend, but time is running out.
“Neymar is on the list of players who can go to the World Cup. Now he has six months to get to the final application. We just have to watch him and other players to make sure we don’t make a mistake in the final selection,” concluded the coach.