São Paulo – Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup took shape Monday with the announcement of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. But, the biggest news surrounds the continued absence of Neymar, the national team’s all-time leading scorer, from the roster. The decision casts further doubt on the 34-year-old forward’s ability to regain full fitness and secure a place in the final World Cup lineup.
Ancelotti explained that Neymar is not currently at 100 percent, a condition necessary for selection. While acknowledging the possibility of Neymar featuring in the tournament, the coach emphasized the need for the player to demonstrate peak physical condition. The friendlies, scheduled for March 26 in Boston and March 31 in Orlando, represent the last opportunity for players to impress Ancelotti before he names his definitive 26-man squad on May 18, according to reports from ESPN.
Despite the setback for Neymar, the squad features several exciting talents, including a first call-up for Lyon forward Endrick. The 17-year-old has quickly made an impact since joining the French club, scoring six goals in 12 appearances. Brentford’s Igor Thiago also earned his first senior international selection, adding further depth to the Brazilian attack.
Endrick Earns First Brazil Call-Up Under Ancelotti
Endrick’s inclusion marks a significant moment for the young forward, who has been closely monitored by Ancelotti since the coach took charge in June. The coach highlighted the importance of players performing well in their respective leagues, specifically mentioning Endrick, Rayan, and Danilo as deserving of their places in the squad. The squad also includes established stars such as Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid and Raphinha of Barcelona, who are expected to lead the attack alongside Chelsea’s João Pedro and Matheus Cunha.
The absence of Lucas Paquetá, who recently joined Flamengo from West Ham United, is notable, but veteran Manchester United midfielder Casemiro retains his place in the team. Ancelotti’s squad selection reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent as Brazil prepares for its World Cup campaign, which begins against Morocco on June 13th. Brazil is also grouped with Scotland and Haiti in Group C.
Ancelotti Eyes Contract Extension Through 2030
Beyond the squad announcement, Ancelotti also revealed discussions are underway regarding a contract extension that would keep him as Brazil’s manager through the 2030 World Cup. He stated that the Brazilian federation is prepared to offer him a new deal, with negotiations expected to finalize either before or after the upcoming tournament. “When a couple wants to carry on I believe there’s no problem,” Ancelotti said, as reported by FIFA. He jokingly added, “Extending before the World Cup will be cheaper, afterwards it will be more expensive,” expressing confidence in reaching an agreement.
The full Brazil squad list is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al Nassr), Éderson (Fenerbahce)
- Defenders: Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Danilo (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Ibañez (Al-Ahly), Léo Pereira (Flamengo), Marquinhos (PSG), Wesley (Roma)
- Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Chelsea), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad), Gabriel Sara (Galatasaray)
- Forwards: Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid), João Pedro (Chelsea)
Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia will be crucial in assessing the team’s readiness for the World Cup. The focus will be on integrating new players like Endrick and Thiago while evaluating Neymar’s progress as he strives to regain his place in the squad. The coming months will be pivotal in determining Brazil’s chances of success in the tournament.
What do you think of Ancelotti’s squad selection? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
