Neymar Denies Injury Claim, Contradicts Brazil Coach Ancelotti on Squad Omission

Neymar has publicly disputed Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti's explanation that his omission from the national team squad was due to fitness concerns. While Ancelotti cited a minor injury and stressed the need for Neymar to be in good physical condition for the World Cup, Neymar insisted his physical issues were minor and not the real reason for his exclusion, suggesting it was a technical decision instead. Neymar played a full match for Santos recently, further contradicting claims of significant injury problems. Despite the current absence from Brazil's squad for World Cup qualifiers, Neymar remains a key player for the team and is expected to be considered for the tournament next summer. Ancelotti has emphasized Neymar's importance to the team but also the necessity for all players to arrive fit for the World Cup. The situation reflects ongoing tensions and differing perspectives between the coach and the star forward ahead of the 2026 World Cup.