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Football Insider

Neymar's World Cup Journey: Fighting for a Final Chance

Neymar, the Santos star, faces disappointment as he is left out of the Brazil squad for the upcoming international break. With the 2026 World Cup being his last shot at glory, Neymar remains determined to convince Carlo Ancelotti to call him up.

Neymar's World Cup Journey: Fighting for a Final Chance

Neymar has admitted he is feeling "sad" and "upset" after being left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil squad for the upcoming international break. The Santos forward, who is documentation his daily life in a new YouTube series, has acknowledged that the 2026 tournament represents his final chance at World Cup glory.The Selecao's latest squad announcement confirmed that Neymar will miss the upcoming high-profile friendlies against France on March 26 and Croatia on April 1. Reflecting on his exclusion, the star expressed his disappointment. "The national team squad has just been announced. We weren't called up. Of course, I'm sad, but I'll always support the national team," Neymar said. "Now it's about keeping working, and being ready if an opportunity comes. Obviously, it's my last World Cup. I was upset. But tomorrow I have to stop being sad. I need to work, train and play so that an opportunity may arise to be at the World Cup. I'm prepared.”The dream of a romantic international comeback remains on hold for Brazil’s all-time leading scorer. Despite a resurgence at Santos, marked by two goals and an assist in his last two outings, the 34-year-old’s name was the most striking omission from the Selecao's latest squad.While Neymar feels he is trending in the right direction, Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that reputation alone is not enough. The coach explained: "Why didn't I call him up this time? Because he is not 100% and I need players who are 100%. Neymar must therefore continue to train, to play, to demonstrate his qualities and be in good physical condition."Neymar is acutely aware that his window to represent Brazil at a major tournament is closing fast. Speaking to Mad House, via Foot Mercato, he admitted: "Obviously, I'm disappointed and sad not to have been selected. But I remain focused, day after day. Of course, my desire is to return to the national team, to play in the World Cup, but that doesn't depend on me."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingWith the international break looming, Neymar’s immediate focus remains on lifting Santos up the table. The clock is ticking ahead of the final World Cup squad announcement on May 19. As he noted in his documentary, the path to redemption requires him to "work, train and play" at a level that leaves the coaching staff with no choice but to include their number ten for one last dance.

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Neymar's Disappointment and Determination

Neymar has expressed his sadness at being omitted from the Brazil squad by Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. Despite this setback, Neymar remains committed to supporting the national team and working hard to earn a spot in the final World Cup squad.

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The Quest for World Cup Redemption

Acknowledging that the 2026 World Cup is his last opportunity to shine on the global stage, Neymar is determined to show his worth. With a resurgence in form at Santos, Neymar is focused on training, playing, and proving his readiness to represent Brazil at the highest level.

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Carlo Ancelotti's Criteria and Neymar's Response

Carlo Ancelotti's decision not to include Neymar in the latest Brazil squad was based on the player's fitness level. Neymar understands the coach's expectations and is committed to working hard to meet the required standards. Despite the disappointment, Neymar remains focused on his goal of returning to the national team.

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The Road Ahead for Neymar

As Neymar continues to showcase his talents at Santos, he remains determined to make a compelling case for his inclusion in the final World Cup squad. With the May 19 squad announcement approaching, Neymar's focus is on performing at his best and leaving no doubt in the minds of the selectors.

Published on Mar 18, 2026