Carlo Ancelotti has decided to include Neymar in the preliminary squad for Brazil’s friendly matches this month against France and Croatia.
According to GE, the plan was for Ancelotti to personally observe the player during Santos’ match against Mirassol on Tuesday (10), in the fifth round of the Brazilian league.
Ultimately, Neymar suffered a muscle strain and will not be able to participate in this match. However, Ancelotti has decided to recall him to the national team after a long absence.
Neymar returned to the pitch on February 15, appearing as a substitute in the team’s match against Veloco. He then started in the matches against Novorizontino and Vasco da Gama, scoring two goals (both against Vasco) and providing one assist.
Despite Ancelotti’s intentions, it’s possible he’ll drop Neymar at the last minute, just as he did last year when he included him in the preliminary squad and then reversed his decision.
The final squad—with or without Neymar—is scheduled to be announced next Monday (16).
Neymar hasn’t worn the Brazilian jersey since the October 2023 international break, when he suffered a cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for over a year.
It’s worth noting that Brazil will face France on the 26th in Boston, then Croatia on the 31st in Orlando. These two matches will be the only remaining friendlies before the final World Cup squad is announced.
