Coach Ancelotti finalizes Brazil squad: Neymar and Antony making a return?

Coach Carlo Ancelotti has finalized the Brazil squad for the November FIFA Days, with Neymar's status being the most notable point.

Only seven months remain until the 2026 World Cup kicks off, and as the biggest stage in world football approaches, all national teams are entering their most serious preparation phase. Brazil is no exception. Recently, Coach Carlo Ancelotti announced the call-up list for the November camp, which, as usual, has sparked considerable debate: Neymar is once again omitted from the squad.

As part of their World Cup build-up, the Selecao will play two friendlies in the upcoming FIFA break, facing Senegal and Tunisia. Although these African opponents are not on Brazil's level, it's notable that both have qualified for the World Cup.

Significantly, Coach Ancelotti has once again excluded Neymar from the squad. Despite fully recovering from injury and reportedly being in good shape, the Italian tactician chose not to call up the Santos star. It has now been over two years since Neymar last represented Brazil, making his chances for the 2026 World Cup increasingly slim.

Although Neymar has recovered after treatment, Ancelotti believes the team must move forward without relying on the 1992-born superstar at this time. This decision has attracted significant media attention both domestically and internationally, especially as the World Cup preparation time shortens and the Selecao have only a few friendlies left to finalize their squad.

Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil was in October 2023 during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Unfortunately, that match—and his qualifying campaign—ended prematurely due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus injury to his left knee just before halftime.

Besides Neymar's absence, Samba fans are also disappointed that Antony has not been called up for the upcoming period.

The 2000-born star has shown brilliant performances in recent matches, most recently scoring twice against Mallorca in La Liga. Since leaving Manchester United in the summer, Antony has regained form with five goals and two assists in nine appearances for Real Betis. However, despite his impressive displays, the former Ajax player has yet to catch the eye of Coach Ancelotti, continuing to wait for a national team opportunity after more than two years.

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