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.
Chelsea player Enzo Fernández is in discussions to join Manchester City. This information was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who shared that the two clubs are discussing a potential deal.
He wrote: “Enzo Fernández has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms.
“Deal depends on club-to-club decision, as #MCFC have not sent an official bid yet, but contacts will take place soon; decision on price is up to Chelsea.
“Enzo could be out again this weekend.”
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca mentions his captains for the team. He mentions Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
He shared “We have experienced players. For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four or five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Ruben [Dias] and Erling , who at the moment are the two captains.”
Maresca confirmed the pair as part of his leadership group ahead of the 2026/27 season, with two more captains expected to be selected after the transfer window closes.
Chelsea manager speaks on the team and shares thoughts on considering a change in goalkeepers, giving another goalkeeper, Mike Penders, a chance.
“Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first.”
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Enzo Fernández Moves Closer to Manchester City Transfer
