Carlo Ancelotti, coach of the Brazil national team, sent a clear message to Neymar. Selection will be based on fitness, not reputation.
The Guardian published an exclusive interview with Ancelotti on the 13th (Korea time). Ancelotti will take charge of Brazil at the World Cup for the first time.
Ancelotti is a manager who has experienced five Champions League titles in European club soccer and league titles in England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. However, this is his first time managing a national team at the World Cup.
The goal is clear. Brazil has not won the World Cup since 2002. The Guardian explained that getting Brazil back to the top of the world is the task given to Ancelotti. Ancelotti said he is not obsessed with winning the World Cup, but he also said he is enjoying the moment of leading the most important national team in the world.
The key is Neymar. Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading scorer, but he has not played for the Seleção since October 2023. He is also 34. His talent is unquestionable, but his fitness is the issue.
According to The Guardian, Ancelotti said the decision to select Neymar is entirely up to him. He explained that although most players should be judged on both talent and fitness, in Neymar's case talent is unquestionable and only his physical condition needs to be assessed.
Mention of Vinícius Júnior was also important. Ancelotti said Vinícius carries a large responsibility for Brazil.
According to The Guardian, he said it is important to help Vinícius play with less burden and with joy and energy. At the same time, he emphasized that you cannot focus everything on one player and that you must think as a team to win the World Cup.
Brazil is already dealing with injury variables. The Guardian reported that Éder Militão and Rodrygo have been ruled out, and Esteban's participation is also uncertain. That is why Ancelotti said he is worried about injury problems.
Thiago Silva is also a variable. Now 41, he is aiming for a fifth World Cup appearance. Ancelotti said he had a good season at Porto and is in good physical condition, saying he is "on the radar." That means he is also considering veteran leadership.
Brazil will meet Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in the group stage. Ancelotti cited talent and motivation as conditions necessary for Brazil to win again. He said the country's motivation to win again after 24 years is enormous.
Neymar cannot go to the World Cup on name alone. Vinícius cannot bring Brazil to the top by himself. What Ancelotti wants is a team, not a star. Brazil's dream of winning begins with that balance.
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