Brazil's Ancelotti puts fitness before flair in Neymar row

Speaking ahead of Thursday's World Cup qualifier against Chile at the Maracana, the Italian explained that he had chosen to leave the forward out of the squad for the matches against Chile and Bolivia.

Neymar, who publicly stated he was fit and available, had previously suggested that Ancelotti's reasoning was unfounded.

"I accepted Neymar's criticism as normal – it's true, it was a technical decision," Ancelotti said. "I demand players at 100 per cent. Before calling anyone up, we assess not only their quality but their recent form, fitness and any problems they've had. Physical condition is a very important factor for us."

The Brazil manager stressed that the decision was not a reflection of histalent, which he called "undisputed", but on his current condition. "It's not just Neymar – it applies to everyone. We need players who are fully fit and who play for the team, not just individually," he added.

Ancelotti also revealed that around 70 players are under consideration for Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, making competition fierce. "From those 70, we'll evaluate their quality, their fitness, and how well they fit into the team. Sometimes it's better to take a player with less technical quality but who is at peak physical condition and committed to the team."

Brazil, already assured of a place at the 2026 World Cup with 25 points and sitting third in the South American standings behind Argentina and Ecuador, face Chile at home before travelling to La Paz to take on Bolivia next Tuesday.