“If he’s at 90%, I’ll call another player who is at 100%” - Carlo Ancelotti issues warning to Real Madrid star about Brazil call up for World Cup

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has warned Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr that his place in the FIFA World Cup squad is not sealed. He admitted that the squad will be selected based on who is fit and available at the time, and not on previous games.

Speaking to the media, Ancelotti was asked if he was open to selecting Neymar for the FIFA World Cup. He used the Brazilian legend's situation to send a message to Real Vinicius Jr as well and said (via Tribal Football):

“He has to be at 100%. There are many very good players, I need to choose players who are at 100%. It's not just Neymar, it could be Vinicius. If Vinicius is at 90%, I'll call up another player who is at 100%, because it's a team with a very high level of competition, especially in attack. In attack, we have many very good players."

Talking about Neymar, he added:

"I think he has great talent. He was unlucky to get injured during the time we were together. He couldn't prepare to be in good physical shape because of the injuries . It's November now… Neymar is at the same level as everyone else , considering that Neymar has already demonstrated extraordinary talent.”

Carlo Ancelotti has not called up Neymar for the national team since becoming the manager in the summer.

Carlo Ancelotti sent message to Real Madrid star

Carlo Ancelotti sent a clear message to Real Madrid star Endrick in November, but said that he is not pushing for the Brazilian to leave Los Blancos in the winter window. He added that the youngster will need to evaluate the options himself and said (via ESPN):

"He's a very important player because he's one of the talents to have come out of Brazilian football. We're evaluating him. But it's not true that I said Endrick should leave Real Madrid to go to the World Cup. That's a matter between Real Madrid and the player. He needs to talk to the club and make the best decision for himself and for Real Madrid."

Carlo Ancelotti managed Endrick, Vinicius Jr, and Rodrygo at Los Blancos until last season. The Italian took over as the Brazil manager after the end of the 2024/25 season, following his time at Santiago Bernabéu.

Endrick has now been linked with a loan move to Lyon, while Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr have their future at Los Blancos hanging in the balance.