Carlo Ancelotti on Neymar’s retirement from Brazil and the last World Cup: ‘It was the right decision to call him’

Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international football 16 years after making his senior debut in 2010, which brings a clear era Brazil sports history is coming to an end. Following this news, the head coach Carlo Ancelotti think about the star’s decision to leave, while defending his choice to include the veteran in his final World Cup line-up: “It was the right decision to call him.“

I 2026 World Cup it was always thought to be Neymar’s ultimate international goal, so ambitious that he returned to Santos to escape European exposure and rebuild the intensity of his game. But a disappointing Round of 16 exit brought a swift end to his time with The Selecaoentering and changing the guard as Ancelotti focuses on a comprehensive restructured plan before 2030.

Speaking on Wednesday no ESPNPedro Ivo Almeida, Ancelotti made it clear that a new chapter has arrived for the five-time World Cup champions:I think the players like it Neymarwho has commented yesterday, and with due respect for his decision. I believe that in history, a generation ends and another must come, and it must be better than the last.”

Speaking directly to Neymar, Ancelotti gave a clear account of the frustrations surrounding the striker’s fitness heading into the tournament, particularly the lingering injury that kept him out of the group stage. “What upsets me is that Neymar could have prepared himself better during this lead time. He could have prepared the first game instead of the fourth game. That was the only disappointing part.“

Neymar Jr #10 from Brazil applauds the fans

Arriving at training camp with muscle soreness, an MRI revealed a Grade 2 calf strain that ruled Neymar out. BrazilThe first group matches against Morocco and Haiti. However, Ancelotti praised the star’s performance, noting his attitude “he was perfect,” highlighting his focus on rehabbing, supporting his younger teammates, and good work ethic in training.

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Carlo Ancelotti begins the rebuilding of Brazil after Neymar after the 2026 World Cup exit

“I think he didn’t contribute at the technical level that was hoped he could, because he didn’t. But, in terms of attitude, it was a very good attitude. I have great love for him, I appreciated him for his attitude, for his behavior, and I think it was the right decision to put him on the 26-man roster.,” concluded Ancelotti, insisting that bringing the veteran to North America was not a mistake.

Ancelotti shows another advantage of the list

Since taking over in May 2025, Ancelotti has shown a commitment to reshaping the Brazilian national team, combining emerging domestic talent with experienced veterans. As Neymar continues, some long-standing pillars are nearing the end of their international careers; while a select few will be retained to provide veteran leadership, others will be phased out entirely.

While the development of young talents remains a pillar of the 2030 cycle, Ancelotti confirmed that a select group of leaders will remain in the fold: “Some of these will exist, obviously. For example, Marquinhos. Alisson, we’ll see. It is obvious that we have to look at young goalkeepers, because there are young goalkeepers who are already playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro, and some very young players who may be there..”

When asked specifically about stalwarts like Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandrowhose international career may have reached its natural conclusion in North America, Ancelotti did not speak. “I think so. It is an era that is about to end. Obviously, we have all of them to thank, and I love them all very much. But I think the idea that a player over 30 years old is finished means we have to think about the future,” said the Italian.

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