Brazil Squad for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Shocking Exclusions

Carlo Ancelotti has named 23-man Brazil Squad for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for the final two games, omitting three of the side’s biggest attacking names, Neymar Jr, Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.

The Seleção, already assured of their place in the tournament, face Chile at the Maracanã on September 4 before travelling to El Alto five days later to confront Bolivia at 4,100 metres. Brazil currently sit third in the CONMEBOL standings on 25 points, level with Ecuador and behind leaders Argentina on goal difference.

Ancelotti said the absences were deliberate. Neymar continues to deal with a leg injury, while Vinícius is suspended for the Chile match. Rodrygo, like his Real Madrid teammate, was omitted not for form but because, as the Italian explained, “I already know them well. I want to look at players I don’t know as well.”

Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023, his career increasingly fragmented by injuries. Vinícius and Rodrygo, however, remain central to Ancelotti’s longer-term plans.

Brazil Squad for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Goalkeepers: Bento (Al Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Alisson (Liverpool).

Defenders: Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Wesley (Roma), Marquinhos (PSG), Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Vanderson (Monaco), Alexandro Ribeiro (Lille), Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Caio Henrique (Monaco).

Midfielders: Joelinton (Newcastle), Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), Casemiro (Manchester United), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), André Santos (Chelsea).

Forwards: João Pedro (Chelsea), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Estêvão (Chelsea), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Kaio Jorge (Cruzeiro), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham).

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