Neymar, however, admitted to feeling ‘upset’ and ‘sad’ after being left out, but insisted his focus remains on his daily training and performance.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Brazil forward Neymar Jr expressed his disappointment at being omitted from the national team for this month’s international friendlies against France and Croatia, following the squad announcement by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The Italian tactician’s decision to exclude Neymar on Monday came as a surprise to many. However, Ancelotti later explained that the former Paris Saint-Germain forward was left out because he is not yet 100 per cent fit.
”Neymar is not at 100 per cent,” Ancelotti noted while explaining the omission.
“If he can reach 100 per cent physically, he can be there. Neymar could be at the World Cup. He has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities, and maintaining his physical condition,” he added.
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Reacting to the decision at an event in São Paulo, Neymar told the media that while he was saddened by the exclusion, he remains optimistic about his future with the Seleção.
”I’m upset, sad about not being called up. But the focus remains—day after day, training after training, game after game.
“We are going to achieve our goal. There is still one final call-up left, and the dream lives on. That is it; we are in this together,” Neymar said.
