Ancelotti, who took over Brazil's national team ahead of the 2026 tournament, gave Neymar a clear ultimatum during a December press conference. He stressed selections will be purely merit-based, with the squad announced in May depending on form and fitness—no favoritism for the all-time top scorer plagued by injuries. Days earlier, the 33-year-old netted three goals in 17 minutes against Juventude, helping Santos avoid relegation trouble. Fans remain divided, but Ancelotti holds firm amid talents like Vinícius Júnior and Endrick.
