Ancelotti Video Call Decisive for Neymar's 2026 World Cup Inclusion

A candid and direct video call last Thursday proved to be the turning point that secured Neymar's call-up for the 2026 World Cup, according to Globo Esporte. The direct contact between Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil's national team coach, and the Santos player reportedly sealed a vote of confidence, culminating in the announcement of the 26-man squad this Monday in Rio de Janeiro.

The decision to include the forward, who had been absent from the national team for nearly three years, began to take shape four days before the official announcement. The Italian coach, alongside Rodrigo Caetano, the national teams director, initiated contact to clarify the new conditions the player would encounter upon his return.

During the conversation, Ancelotti informed Neymar that he would not be the team captain and, initially, would not be a guaranteed starter. Furthermore, new behavioral guidelines for the national team were detailed, including advice on reducing social media exposure, a practice the player had been accustomed to in previous years.

From the seasoned attacker's side, the reception was entirely positive. The former Barcelona and PSG star reportedly took the call with a smile and guaranteed his full commitment to being a valuable asset to the squad. This willingness to adapt to the new reality was crucial for Ancelotti's final decision, and by Friday, his call-up was considered virtually certain within CBF circles.

The final confirmation arrived on Monday morning. After monitoring Neymar's physical condition, as he had complained of calf pain during Santos' match against Coritiba, the CBF received assurance that no injury was diagnosed. With clinical clearance, it was decided that the forward would be called up, taking João Pedro's spot.

The 26 selected players, including Neymar, are scheduled to report to Granja Comary in Teresópolis on May 27. The Brazilian national team has a farewell friendly against Panama at the Maracanã on May 31, before traveling to the USA on June 1. Prior to their World Cup debut, Brazil will also face Egypt in a friendly in Cleveland on June 6. The tournament opener is set for June 13 against Morocco in New Jersey.