The Brazilian national team’s preparations for upcoming friendly matches against France and Croatia have been overshadowed by the omission of one of its most recognizable stars: Neymar. The decision, made by manager Dorival Júnior, has prompted a visibly emotional response from the Al Hilal forward, who reportedly questioned his place in the national team setup, asking, “And me?” according to reports.
The 32-year-old, currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, has not featured for Brazil since February 2023. While the exact reasons for his continued exclusion remain a point of discussion, manager Dorival Júnior has indicated a desire to build a team with a different profile, focusing on tactical balance and collective performance. This decision comes as Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, has not included Neymar in his plans either, adding to the player’s frustration.
Neymar’s reaction, captured and widely circulated, underscores the depth of his commitment to representing his country. He has earned 128 caps for Brazil, scoring 79 goals, making him the nation’s all-time leading scorer alongside Pelé. His international career has yielded significant team accolades, including a South American U-20 Championship in 2011, an Olympic silver medal at the 2012 London Games, and a FIFA Confederations Cup victory in 2013. He was too part of the Brazil team that reached the Copa América final in 2021, ultimately losing to Argentina.
A Career in Transition
Neymar’s club career has been marked by success and significant transfers. He began his professional journey at Santos in Brazil, where he quickly established himself as a prodigious talent, scoring 107 goals in 179 appearances between 2009 and 2013. A move to Barcelona followed, where he formed a formidable attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, winning numerous titles including a Champions League trophy in 2015. He scored 68 goals in 123 appearances for the Catalan club.
In 2017, Neymar made a world-record transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, seeking to grow the central figure of a team capable of conquering Europe. During his six seasons in Paris, he scored 82 goals in 112 appearances, but Champions League success continued to elude him. In 2023, he joined Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, a move that signaled a shift in his career trajectory. As of March 19, 2026, Neymar has made 3 appearances for Al Hilal, scoring no goals. He has since returned to Santos in 2025, with 32 appearances and 14 goals.
Ancelotti’s Rationale and the Future of the Squad
The decision to omit Neymar was explained by Dorival Júnior, who is building a new-look Brazil squad. According to reports, the manager is prioritizing players who fit his tactical system and are currently in peak physical condition. This approach reflects a broader trend in modern football, where collective organization and pressing are valued alongside individual brilliance. Yahoo Sports details Ancelotti’s reasoning behind the decision.
The Brazil squad announced for the upcoming friendlies includes a mix of established stars and emerging talents. The matches against France and Croatia will serve as crucial preparation for the 2026 World Cup, which Brazil will co-host with the United States and Canada. The focus will be on building team cohesion and experimenting with different tactical approaches.
Neymar’s Current Status and Potential Return
Despite his omission from the current squad, Neymar’s future with the national team remains uncertain. His experience, skill, and goal-scoring record create him a valuable asset, but his recent form and fitness will be key factors in any future consideration. According to Sky Sport, Neymar expressed his sadness over the exclusion, and questioned his future with the national team under Ancelotti’s leadership.
Neymar’s current contract with Santos runs through 2025, and his performances for the club will be closely monitored by the national team coaching staff. A strong showing in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A could potentially open the door for a return to the squad. The player himself has expressed a desire to continue representing Brazil, and his passion for the national team is undeniable.
The next opportunity for Neymar to demonstrate his value will be in the upcoming club matches with Santos. The Brazilian national team will continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, and the coaching staff will be evaluating players based on their performances for their respective clubs. The situation remains fluid, and Neymar’s future with Brazil will depend on a combination of factors, including his form, fitness, and the team’s evolving needs.
The debate surrounding Neymar’s exclusion highlights the challenges facing modern national team managers, who must balance individual talent with collective strategy. As Brazil looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup, the team will demand to find the right blend of experience and youth to compete for the coveted trophy.
What do you think about Neymar’s exclusion from the Brazilian national team? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your friends and colleagues.
