Neymar left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad, Antony and Casemiro recalled | OneFootball

Neymar has been left out of the Brazil squad by new manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has recalled Casemiro, Antony and Richarlison for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Brazil face Ecuador on June 5 before hosting Paraguay on June 10. Neymar, who is Seleção‘s all-time leading scorer, has not played for his country since October 2023, when he tore his left ACL and meniscus while on international duty.

Ancelotti says the 33-year-old is still an important player for his country, who has featured in Santos’ previous two matches having just returned from a muscular injury.

“I tried to select players who are in good shape,” Ancelotti said. “Neymar had an injury recently. Everyone knows that Neymar is a very important player, he always has been and always will be.”

The former Real Madrid manager also sung the praises of Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, who returns to the Brazil set-up for the first time since October 2023, looking to add to his 75 caps.

“In my opinion, he is a great player. I was lucky to be with him, I think the national team needs this type of player who has charisma, personality, talent. Brazil has always had a lot of talent.

“In modern soccer, you have to add attitude, commitment, sacrifice, and Casemiro has that. And many of those who have been called up have that.”

The 65-year-old also understands the pressure on him to deliver a sixth World Cup trophy to the record holders, but is up for the challenge in front of him.

“I am very proud to be here, because the history books show Brazil is the best national team in the world, having won five World Cup trophies. It is a huge responsibility on me to win a sixth.

“I’m delighted, the challenge is great. I’ve always had a special connection with this team. We’re going to work to make Brazil champions again.

“I’m honoured and proud to lead the best team in the world.”

Brazil has yet to qualify for next year’s World Cup and is fourth in the South American group, having lost five of 14 games.