100% or bust: Ancelotti puts Neymar and Vinícius on equal footing for Brazil's World Cup 2026 drive
1 December 2025
Understanding Ancelotti's Fitness Philosophy
Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil's manager, says he treats Neymar like Vinícius Júnior, the Real Madrid winger, with both players judged by the same standard: 100% fitness before any World Cup call.
Ancelotti explained that any player not fully fit won't be called, and this applies to all stars without exception.
In a TV Record interview, he said 'The player must be 100% ready'.
There are many standout players, and I must choose those fully match-fit. It's not just about Neymar; Vinícius could also be included.
If Vinícius is at 90% readiness, I'll call another player at 100% because the team is highly competitive, especially in attack with many quality options.
Ancelotti noted Neymar hasn't appeared in any squads since taking the role last summer, missing eight consecutive matches for the national team.
Neymar hasn't played for the Samba Kings since his injury against Uruguay in October 2023, but he continues to work hard to take part in the World Cup.
Ancelotti added 'I believe Neymar has enormous talent. He has suffered bad luck due to injuries during the time we worked together, and he couldn't fully prepare to maintain his physical condition because of these injuries'.
He pointed out Neymar is at the same level as others, considering he has shown exceptional talent.
Vinícius, by contrast, has maintained a special relationship with Ancelotti since the Italian manager's time at Real Madrid.
A few weeks ago Vinícius said 'With Ancelotti, we are evolving, building a defined playing style. Finding this pattern before the World Cup will be important because the remaining matches are few. Everyone must fit into the World Cup atmosphere, and we must bear in mind that our chance has arrived'.
Punchline 1: If 100% fitness were easy, Neymar would have patented it by now.
Punchline 2: And if Vinícius performs at 90%, Brazil's attack clearly runs on espresso and hope.
