In a bold move, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has unveiled his 23-man squad for the final 2026 World Cup South American qualifiers, notably excluding Neymar, Vinícius Jr., and Rodrygo. With Brazil already qualified, the upcoming matches against Chile at the Maracanã on September 4, 2025, and Bolivia in El Alto’s high-altitude stadium offer a chance to test new talent.
The Ancelotti Brazil squad selection, sitting third in CONMEBOL with 25 points, reflects a strategic shift to evaluate lesser-known players ahead of the 2026 Copa América, sparking buzz about his experimental approach.Ancelotti justified Neymar’s absence due to a lingering leg injury, sidelining the star since October 2023.
Vinícius Jr., suspended for the Chile match, and Rodrygo, both Real Madrid players familiar to Ancelotti, were left out to give others a chance to shine.
The coach emphasized his intent to assess players he knows less personally, ensuring a deeper pool for future tournaments. This Brazil squad without Neymar decision has fueled discussions on social media, with fans intrigued by the blend of veterans and fresh faces.
The squad features stalwarts like Alisson, Marquinhos, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Raphinha, and Richarlison, alongside exciting newcomers such as Chelsea’s 17-year-old Estêvão and Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha.
A standout return is West Ham’s Lucas Paquetá, back after a year-long absence due to a betting investigation. Emerging talents like João Pedro, Kaio Jorge, and Luiz Henrique add depth, particularly in attack, where Ancelotti is testing alternatives to the usual Neymar-Vinícius-Rodrygo trio.
The qualifiers, while not critical for Brazil’s World Cup spot, are pivotal for Ancelotti’s long-term vision.
Facing Chile’s dynamic attack and Bolivia’s challenging high-altitude conditions, these games will gauge the squad’s adaptability.
Ancelotti’s focus on experimentation has drawn praise for its forward-thinking approach, though some fans question omitting proven stars like Vinícius Jr., a Ballon d’Or contender, despite his suspension limiting his availability.
As Brazil prepares, the Ancelotti Brazil squad selection underscores a commitment to building a versatile team.
The inclusion of young stars like Estêvão signals a bright future, potentially reshaping Brazil’s frontline for years to come.The Brazil squad without Neymar narrative highlights Ancelotti’s willingness to take risks, prioritizing depth over familiarity.
Fans are eager to see how newcomers perform in high-stakes matches against Chile and Bolivia.Paquetá’s return and Estêvão’s call-up add intrigue to the Ancelotti Brazil squad selection, offering a glimpse into a new era for the Seleção as they gear up for Copa América.
Ultimately, Ancelotti’s decision to exclude Neymar, Vinícius, and Rodrygo in this Brazil squad without Neymar experiment reflects a strategic vision. These qualifiers are a proving ground for emerging talent, setting the stage for Brazil’s pursuit of global dominance in 2026.
