In the end, Carlo Ancelotti gave in to popular pressure and decided to include Neymar in Brazil's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. The turning point to overcome the last doubts, Globo reveals, came four days ago, when the Brazil coach called the 34-year-old currently at Santos FC to take stock of the situation and clarify everything that had been said and written in recent months, when the former Barcelona and PSG player's constant absences from the squads had ignited public debate.
Ancelotti began the video call with Rodrigo Caetano, Brazil's sporting director. The 66-year-old coach from Reggiolo, who has just renewed his contract and is therefore in a strong position for the World Cup that starts on June 11, wanted to test Neymar's willingness to give up the role of star and enter a new dimension. Practically, no behavior or privileges of a star, but a different role, the acceptance of which was essential in the eyes of the Italian technician to dispel doubts about his collection.
Both the coach and the Brazilian Football Federation considered it essential to clarify the new conditions imposed on Neymar before making a final decision. During the conversation, Ancelotti informed him that he would no longer be the team captain and that, at least initially, he would not be a guaranteed starter in his squad.
He also explained the new rules of group management and internal discipline introduced with the arrival of the technical staff led by him. Another request concerned the reduction of Neymar's exposure on social networks, where he is very active (even in online poker sessions). According to internal sources of the Brazilian national team, the footballer received the message positively and expressed his full willingness to do everything possible to help Brazil return to the top of world football.