Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a shocker, warning superstar Neymar that his World Cup place is not guaranteed.
The Italian tactician, who took charge of the Selecao earlier this year, has already left Neymar out of squads for the June and September international breaks.
While Neymar suggested the decision was “technical,” Ancelotti has now set the record straight.
Speaking in an interview with ESPN, the 65-year-old made it clear that fitness, not reputation, will decide Neymar’s future in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
“We are not going to observe how Neymar plays, obviously. Everyone knows his talent,” Ancelotti said.
“In modern football, to take advantage of his talent, the player has to be in good physical condition.
If he is in his best physical condition, he will have no problems being in the national team.”
Neymar, 33, has battled a series of injuries in recent years, raising doubts about his ability to cope with the intensity of elite football.
According to Ancelotti, Brazil cannot afford to carry players who are not at their physical best.
Moreover, the coach revealed that he has already spoken to the Santos forward.
“I said, ‘you have time to prepare in the best way to be there and help the team try to do their best in the World Cup,’” Ancelotti disclosed.
In addition to clarifying his stance, Ancelotti also shared how he intends to use Neymar should he make the squad.
The Italian believes Neymar’s days of dazzling from the wings are behind him.
“I would select him as an attacking midfielder or striker. He has to play centrally, he can’t play on the outside because modern football needs forwards who have physical quality.
He can play as an attacking midfielder without problems,” he explained.
For now, Neymar will shift focus back to his club side Santos.
He is expected to feature in their Brazilian Serie A clash against Atletico Mineiro on Sunday, where fans will be eager to see signs of his recovery.
