In the just-concluded friendly match where Brazil defeated Croatia 3-1, Brazilian fans at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando repeatedly chanted Neymar’s name. The former Santos No.10 was not selected in the current national team squad, yet fans’ appeals lasted the entire game and grew especially loud in the second half.
Neymar missed both of Brazil’s friendlies against France and Croatia, which represent the final training camp before the World Cup final squad is announced. Ancelotti had previously made it clear that Neymar must reach 100% physical condition to be called up, while not ruling him out of World Cup selection entirely.
When asked about Neymar after the game, Ancelotti said: “Neymar can take part in the World Cup. If he can be at 100% for the tournament, he can be selected. Why isn’t he in the squad this time? Because he is not at 100% yet. Right now we need players who are fully fit. But as I said, the final squad is a different scenario. Neymar must keep working, show his quality through matches and stay in good physical shape.”
The Italian coach emphasized once again that the decision is based on fitness, not technical ability. “This is a physical evaluation, not a technical one. Neymar is outstanding in possession. But for the coaching staff and for me, he is not yet at 100% match readiness. He needs to work to reach full fitness. This is the view of myself and the entire staff, and we will monitor his performances over the coming months.”
Brazil will face Panama at the Maracanã Stadium on May 31, and its final pre-World Cup warm-up fixture will be against Egypt in Cleveland on June 6. Both matches will be held after the final squad is announced on May 18.
