Ancelotti’s Explanation

The Seleção is preparing for two key qualifying matches: first against Chile in Rio de Janeiro, and then against Bolivia in the high altitude of El Alto. For this double fixture, the absence of Neymar from the squad list came as a surprise.

When asked by the media, Carlo Ancelotti justified the omission by claiming the player had “a minor issue last week” and that there was no need to risk him. “We all know Neymar. We need him at his best physically so he can help at the World Cup,” said the Italian coach in a press conference.

Neymar Denies the Version

However, Ancelotti’s official explanation was quickly denied by the player himself. After playing the full 90 minutes in Santos’ 0-0 draw against Fluminense, Neymar clarified that there was no significant physical problem:

“It was a muscle edema, but nothing serious. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have played today or against Bahia the other day. If I was left out, it was a technical decision, it had nothing to do with my physical condition. It’s the coach’s decision. I respect it. I’m out, and now it’s my turn to support the national team,” said the former Barcelona and PSG star.

With those words, Neymar made it clear that he does not share Ancelotti’s medical explanation and that his absence was more a matter of choice than injury.

Santos Facing a Tough Moment

Meanwhile, things are not looking good for Santos either. The club is going through an irregular season in the Brasileirão, currently sitting 16th with 22 points, the same tally as Vitória, which occupies the relegation zone. The board recently appointed Juan Pablo Vojvoda as new head coach in hopes of turning things around.

Despite the struggles, the league still offers room for recovery. With several matches left, Santos is only four points behind Corinthians, the last team currently holding a spot for the 2026 Copa Sudamericana, keeping their international aspirations alive.