Sport
Ancelotti Says Neymar and Rodrygo Are Not Playing Because They Are Injured
Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has opened up on why Neymar and Rodrygo were left out of the squad for next month’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia.
On Monday, Ancelotti named 26 players for the crucial games, but Neymar, who is still recovering from injury, and Rodrygo, along with Vinicius who is suspended, were missing from the list. In their place, fresh faces such as Kaio Jorge, Caio Henrique, Douglas Santos, João Pedro, and Luiz Henrique got the call.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Ancelotti explained his decision. He said that while he has great admiration for Rodrygo, every player representing Brazil must be fully fit. According to him, a national team player must be at 100 percent physically, and if not, there are always others ready to step in.
When asked if he had personally told Neymar and Rodrygo why they were not included, Ancelotti noted that he didn’t need to. He said they already understand the expectations that come with playing for Brazil. Still, he added that if either of them wanted more clarity, they could easily reach out to him since both have his number.
Head coach of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, speaks on team defense and called out a player who needs to toughen up. He shared that Ademola Lookman needs to work on defense.
“Ademola Lookman arrived with great enthusiasm and desire to keep growing. We need him to add defensive work to what he already gives us offensively, because he has that ability,” he then added.
“He’s shown it with the Nigeria national team, and we need him in that role.”
Former football legend Paul Merson states that Mohammad Salah is the greatest winger of all time.
While also praising Bukayo Saka for being the winger in form right now.
When asked in a recent interview, he stated “For the best right now, it’s probably [Bukayo] Saka for his all-around game. I will go Salah, because the numbers he’s put up are ridiculous.”
Former player Paul Merson shares his predictions on this weekend’s Premier League games.
He shared Leeds United vs Manchester City – Prediction: Leeds 1-1 Manchester City.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace – Prediction: Manchester United 3-0 Crystal Palace.
Arsenal vs Chelsea – Prediction: Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea.
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