In a stunning decision that has sent shockwaves through Brazilian football, Carlo Ancelotti has left Neymar out of the Seleção's final squad before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The exclusion of Brazil's all-time leading scorer from friendlies against France and Croatia represents a dramatic shift in direction for the five-time world champions.

According to Reuters, the 34-year-old forward was conspicuously absent from Ancelotti's 26-player roster announced for this month's crucial warm-up matches. While not officially ruled out of World Cup contention, his omission raises serious questions about his tournament prospects.

The inclusion of Brentford striker Igor Thiago represents the positive side of Ancelotti's squad revolution. The 24-year-old has been in sensational form in the Premier League, scoring 19 goals in 30 appearances. Igor Thiago receives his first senior call-up alongside three other debutants: Bournemouth's Rayan (19), Flamengo defender Leo Pereira (30), and Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara (26).