Neymar on the Brink: Ancelotti's Blueprint for Brazil's Beautiful Game

Ancelotti's Neymar stance and Brazil’s philosophy

The Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Monday that Neymar da Silva, Brazil's captain, remains in his plans, but he needs to regain full physical fitness to return to the squad as he pursues a fresh international run ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar, 33, has not played for Brazil in two years, with injuries hampering his performance since returning to Santos last year after a spell with Al Hilal.

Ancelotti, speaking ahead of the friendly against Japan in Tokyo on Tuesday, praised Neymar's talent but stressed the importance of his match fitness.

He told reporters: Neymar can play at his best with this team without problems, and when he is in good physical shape, he has the capacity to play not only for Brazil but for any club in the world thanks to his talent.

The last time Neymar wore the Brazil shirt was October 2023, when a serious knee ligament injury disrupted his comeback.

Brazil head into the game with high spirits after a 5-0 win over South Korea last Friday, in a display that delighted fans.

Ancelotti underlined two traits he sees as priorities before the beautiful game: balance and teamwork.

On his philosophy, he explained that the Brazilian team wants to play beautiful football and can, but it depends on what you mean by