Carlo Ancelotti, the newly appointed manager of the Brazilian national team, is already under fire for his decision to include Neymar in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The selection has sparked controversy and debate, with one ex-Brazil international going as far as to describe the call-up as 'absurd'.

The criticism of Ancelotti's decision revolves around concerns regarding Neymar's recent form and performance levels. The Santos star, who has been a prominent figure in Brazilian football for years, has faced scrutiny over his consistency and impact on the pitch in the build-up to the World Cup.

In response to the backlash, Ancelotti has defended his selection of Neymar, citing the player's experience and proven track record at the international level. The Italian manager remains confident in Neymar's abilities and believes he can play a crucial role in Brazil's quest for World Cup glory.