Carlo Ancelotti Supports Neymar's World Cup Inclusion as Brazil Legend Retires

Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil's head coach, has addressed Neymar's recent retirement from international football, firmly backing his decision to take the seasoned star to the 2026 World Cup. Despite injury troubles, Ancelotti stressed that Neymar’s role was crucial for the team.

Neymar Ends 16 Years with Brazil

At 34 years old, Neymar has officially concluded his 16-year run representing Brazil. His retirement follows Brazil's exit in the round of 16 at the hands of Norway. Ancelotti, however, remains convinced that Neymar deserved his place on the squad traveling to North America.

Concerns Over Fitness and Preparation

The Italian coach openly spoke about the difficulties Neymar faced with fitness and a grade 2 calf strain that kept him out of Brazil's first group matches against Morocco and Haiti. Ancelotti told ESPN, "He couldn’t contribute technically as much as expected because he simply couldn’t. But his attitude was very positive. I have great affection for him and thanked him for his behavior. Including him in the 26-man roster was the right call."

Still, Ancelotti was candid about his disappointment regarding Neymar's physical readiness before the tournament began: "What bothered me was that Neymar could have prepared better leading up to the World Cup. He should have been ready for game one instead of game four. That was the only disappointing part."

A New Chapter for Brazil Football

With Neymar stepping away, Ancelotti is focused on rebuilding the team for the 2030 World Cup. This marks a shift from relying on stars from the 2010s to cultivating fresh talent. The former Real Madrid manager remarked, "One generation ends, and another must come forward and be better than the last."

Other Veterans May Follow Neymar

Ancelotti hinted that Neymar won't be the only senior player leaving the international scene soon. When questioned about players like Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, he responded openly about the aging squad: "It is a period coming to an end. We owe them thanks and hold much affection for all. The idea that players over 30 are finished means we must focus on the future. Some players will remain, such as Marquinhos. Alisson’s future is yet to be decided."

• Player: Neymar
• Age: 34
• International career length: 16 years
• Injury: Grade 2 calf strain
• World Cup 2026: Included in 26-man roster despite injury
• Brazil's 2026 World Cup exit: Round of 16 loss to Norway