Brazil National Team Call-Up List: 2 Manchester United Stars Included, Neymar Faces Decision

Coach Carlo Ancelotti has officially announced the Brazil squad to prepare for the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying matches against Chile and Bolivia.

In the early hours of August 26 (Vietnam time), Coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed the Brazil national team roster for the final two qualifying matches. World Cup 2026, and once again Neymar is absent. This marks the second time since Ancelotti took charge that the Santos star has not been included in the Selecao squad.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that Neymar, along with several other players, needs to work on regaining optimal fitness ahead of next summer’s World Cup, as Brazil has already secured qualification:

Ancelotti commented: “Everyone knows Neymar; the national team and Brazilian fans have high expectations. Neymar, like the other players, must reach peak physical condition to help the team perform effectively and aim for the best possible results at the World Cup. The next two matches are the final qualifiers, and we need to finish this phase strongly.”

Another notable point is that the trio of Real Madrid stars—Vinícius Jr, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo—are also not included. Meanwhile, Lucas Paquetá (West Ham) has been recalled for the first time since the English FA cleared him of match-fixing allegations in July. Ancelotti emphasized his desire to observe the midfielder directly while playing for the national team.

Additionally, two Manchester United stars, Casemiro and Matheus Cunha, have been called up by Coach Ancelotti.

Brazil will conclude their qualifiers by hosting Chile on September 4 and visiting Bolivia on September 9. Having already secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup, Ancelotti is prioritizing experimentation with the squad. Besides Casemiro, the list includes a highly watched name: Estêvão, Chelsea’s young talent who recently impressed in the Premier League last weekend.

Brazil National Team Roster:

• Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento, Hugo Souza

• Defenders: Alex Ribeiro, Alex Sandro, Caio Henrique, Douglas Santos, Fabrício Bruno, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Vanderson, Wesley

• Midfielders: Andrey Santos, Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Joelinton, Lucas Paquetá

• Forwards: Estêvão, Gabriel Martinelli, João Pedro, Kaio Jorge, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Richarlison

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