Brentford’s Igor Thiago has received his first ever call up to the Brazil national team. He is part of the 26-man squad selected by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming friendlies in the United States.
Thiago Included as Neymar Misses Out
Thiago’s inclusion comes as Neymar was once again left out of the squad. The Santos forward’s hopes of playing at the World Cup are fading. Brazil will face France and Croatia in the friendlies. The matches will be held on March 26 in Boston and March 31 in Orlando, respectively. These are the last matches before Ancelotti names his final World Cup roster on May 18.
Ancelotti said, “Neymar is not at 100 percent and therefore he is not on the list.” He added, “Neymar is not at 100 percent of his capability. If he can be at 100 percent physically, he can be there. Neymar could be at the World Cup. Neymar has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities and maintaining good physical condition.”
Endrick Included After Lyon Move
Endrick has been named in the squad for the first time since Ancelotti took over in June. He has scored six goals in 12 appearances since joining Lyon from Real Madrid in the winter transfer window.
Barcelona forward Raphinha and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior lead Brazil’s attack. Chelsea’s João Pedro and Matheus Cunha have also been included. Lucas Paquetá has been left out but veteran Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is in the roster.
Ancelotti Confident About World Cup Preparation
“We are preparing well for this World Cup. We want to arrive in the best possible condition technically, physically and mentally,” Ancelotti said. “There are players who deserve to be here because they are doing well in their respective leagues, as is the case of Endrick, Rayan, Danilo.”
Ancelotti also discussed potentially extending his stay as manager of Brazil through the 2030 World Cup. He said the Brazil federation is set to give him a new contract to stay on after this summer. “When a couple wants to carry on I think there’s no problem,” Ancelotti said. “Either before or after the next World Cup we will make this extension official.”
- Brazil begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13.
- They will also play Scotland and Haiti in Group C.
“[Extending] before the World Cup will be cheaper, afterwards it will be more expensive,” Ancelotti quipped. “I am very confident.”