Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar's inclusion in Brazil's World Cup squad hinges entirely on the player's own performances. Speaking in an exclusive interview, the head coach stressed that the final decision rests with the 34-year-old's displays on the pitch, rather than any external factors or past reputation. This statement comes as Ancelotti grapples with a mounting injury crisis that has already robbed Brazil of key players.
The reigning champions of South America are counting down to the World Cup with a growing list of absentees. Defensive rock Éder Militão and versatile forward Rodrygo have been ruled out through injury, while teenage sensation Estêvão is considered a serious doubt. These setbacks have complicated Ancelotti’s preparations, as he has had only ten matches in charge since taking over in May 2025, recording five wins, two draws, and three defeats.
Ancelotti’s arrival at the helm of the Seleção was met with immense expectation. The Italian, who has won five Champions League titles and domestic leagues in every top European nation, was tasked with ending Brazil’s 24-year World Cup drought—a barren spell that equals the longest in the nation’s history between 1970 and 1994. Despite the pressure, the 66-year-old exudes a calm determination, insisting he is not obsessed with the trophy but driven by a passion for the game and the joy of leading “the most important national team in the world.”
The coach’s man-management style, often highlighted by former players like Kaká, Toni Kroos, and Vinícius Júnior, centers on building deep personal relationships. Ancelotti attributes part of his success to this approach but refutes the idea that he lacks tactical acumen. “I know all aspects of the game very well,” he says, noting that good connections allow players to exceed their maximum. His time at Real Madrid taught him the value of high standards, a principle he has brought to the Brazilian setup.
One of Ancelotti’s immediate challenges is unlocking the full potential of Vinícius Júnior. Under his guidance at Real Madrid, the forward became the world’s best player in 2024, but with Brazil, he has struggled, netting only eight goals in 47 appearances. Ancelotti acknowledges the enormous weight Vinícius carries for the national team and says his job is to lighten that burden, enabling the 25-year-old to play with the joy and energy that define his game.
While Vinícius is seen as a potential match-winner, Ancelotti is careful not to crown a single star. “We don’t need a No 1,” he asserts, emphasizing a collective approach as the only path to World Cup glory. This team-first mentality echoes his philosophy of managing a squad infused with Brazilian flair but disciplined by European lessons. The coach notes that modern football has become more analytical, intense, and attack-minded, and he is adapting his methods accordingly.
The injury situation has forced Ancelotti to rethink his plans. With Militão and Rodrygo out, the defensive and attacking lines lose key links. Militão’s absence is a blow to a backline that already needed cohesion, while Rodrygo’s flair and work rate will be missed. Estêvão, a rising star, is racing against time, adding further uncertainty. These setbacks have also intensified the spotlight on Neymar, whose availability could swing Brazil’s fortunes dramatically.
Ancelotti did not shut the door on Neymar but framed the decision as performance-dependent. The veteran forward, currently at Al-Hilal, has battled fitness issues and faced criticism for his form. The coach’s mantra that “it depends only on him” suggests that Neymar must prove his readiness and commitment through his club displays. For a player of Neymar’s caliber, this ultimatum could serve as both a warning and a motivation to silence doubters.
Beyond tactics and selection, Ancelotti has embraced Brazil’s culture with genuine warmth. He praises the nation’s joy, family values, and religious faith—traits he shares as a devout Catholic. “Religion taught me to be a good person,” he says, and he draws parallels between Italy and Brazil’s strong Catholic roots. This spiritual connection, he believes, helps him relate to the players and the profound love Brazilians hold for the yellow jersey.
As the World Cup approaches, Ancelotti’s contract extension until 2030 signals long-term commitment. Despite being older than most top-flight managers, he shows no signs of fatigue, citing his love for cinema as a metaphor for his enduring passion for football. “I couldn’t live without football,” he admits. The coming months will test whether his blend of empathy, tactical intelligence, and cultural affinity can restore Brazil to the summit of world football.
The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but Ancelotti’s track record of winning on the biggest stages provides a foundation for belief. The injuries are a concern, and he half-jokingly prays for no more setbacks, but his focus remains on building a team that functions as more than the sum of its parts. Whether Neymar forces his way back into the fold will be a defining subplot of Brazil’s campaign.
Based on reporting from The Guardian.
