Overview

• Ancelotti left Neymar out of the September qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, citing a minor leg muscle issue.
• Neymar countered that his omission was a technical choice, not related to his condition.
• The coach says Neymar would be used centrally as an attacking midfielder or striker rather than on the wing.
• Brazil have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, with a friendly against South Korea in Seoul on October 10 offering another look at candidates.
• Ancelotti is on a one-year contract and has signaled openness to continue after the World Cup if the federation wishes.