Carlo Ancelotti has dropped a bombshell. The Brazil boss unveiled his squad for the September World Cup 2026 qualifiers — and it’s missing three of the nation’s biggest stars. Neymar, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo have all been left out.
Brazil, already qualified, face Chile at the Maracanã (Sept 4) and Bolivia away (Sept 9). Ancelotti explained: “Neymar had a small problem, but we don’t need to test him. Everyone knows what he can do.” As for Real Madrid’s aces, neither Vinicius nor Rodrygo (and even Éder Militão) made the cut — a clear sign Ancelotti wants to wipe the slate clean.
Instead, the Italian has turned to fresh faces. Lucas Paquetá (West Ham) returns, while Cruzeiro striker Kaio Jorge gets a surprise call-up. Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estêvão also makes the list, alongside Raphinha, Martinelli and Marquinhos.
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🇧🇷 Nómina de Brasil para las eliminatorias
Alisson (Liverpool)
Bento (Al Nassr)
Hugo Souza (Corinthians)
Alexsandro (Lille)
Alex Sandro (Flamengo)
Caio Henrique (Monaco)
Douglas Santos (Zenit)
Vanderson (Monaco)
Wesley (Roma)
Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro)
Gabriel Magalhães… pic.twitter.com/7XIs7NDcRj
— Guillermo Arango (@guilloarango) August 25, 2025
The message is clear: Brazil are experimenting, but the absence of their biggest names is already sparking fiery debate back home and across Europe. Neymar hasn’t played for the Seleção since October 2023 — and doubts over his international future only grow stronger.
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