World Cup: Ancelotti reveals reason Neymar won’t play against Haiti

Abdullateef Fowewe

Brazil coach, Carlo Ancelotti has left Neymar Jr. out of the squad for Wednesday’s World Cup group-stage match against Haiti, citing a cautious approach to the star’s fitness as the primary reason.

Ancelotti confirmed the forward’s exclusion after Neymar rejoined full team training only 24 hours earlier and is still building match fitness.

The coach said the decision was taken to avoid unnecessary risk to both the player and the team’s wider tournament campaign.

Ancelotti did not rule out Neymar for later fixtures, saying the medical and coaching staff will monitor his readiness day by day.

For now, Brazil will proceed against Haiti without their experienced attacker, prioritising long-term fitness over an immediate return.