Khaberni - Carlo Ancelotti, coach of the Brazilian national football team, confirmed that Neymar Junior is still on the list of players nominated for participation in the 2026 World Cup, indicating that regaining fitness and level will be the decisive factors in his inclusion in the final list.
Ancelotti added, on the eve of Brazil's friendly match against Tunisia in the French city of Lille, that Neymar has "six months" to prove his readiness.
He said: "We will monitor him as we do with the other players, and we want to make the best decisions before the World Cup."
He explained that the player has recovered from his recent injury and will have a full opportunity to showcase his level with the resumption of the Brazilian league.
The Brazilian team is playing its second friendly in this international break, after defeating Senegal 2-0 in London.
Ancelotti pointed to the possibility of changes in the starting lineup, particularly after the injury of Gabriel, hinting at the possibility of incorporating Wesley on the right side.
He emphasized his desire to maintain "the same dynamics" that the team showed against Senegal in terms of discipline and high spirit.
The Italian coach also emphasized the importance of "pressure and proper reading of the game" in modern football, confirming that the performance of the forwards against Senegal was key to improving the defensive system.
He acknowledged the absence of a specialized striker in his current formation, considering that he has time to choose a "main striker" before the World Cup.
Regarding the Tunisia match, Ancelotti expected the game not to be open and to be "more possession-based," praising the Tunisian team's defensive organization.
He also praised the left-back Luciano Juba, considering him one of the names that could secure a spot on the World Cup roster.
