Brazil rotates squad for WC 2026 qualifiers, Neymar sidelined

Brazil’s national team faces the final two World Cup 2026 qualifiers with a markedly different look from the star-driven lineups that have carried the team in recent years. On Monday, coach Carlo Ancelotti unveiled a squad that excludes Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo from Real Madrid, and also omits Neymar for now due to a minor injury. Alongside them, Eder Militao and Endrick are not included in this window, as Brazil has already secured a berth to the 2026 tournament and the emphasis shifts toward managing workload and integrating new players.

The decision comes after Brazil clinched a spot at the World Cup in June, leaving September’s matches against Chile and Bolivia primarily formalities in terms of qualification. The two games will be played at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, on September 4, and in El Alto, Bolivia, five days later in conditions known for their altitude. Ancelotti’s approach reflects a broader strategy of refreshing the squad while safeguarding key performers for the long run.

Ancelotti explained that the omission of the Real Madrid duo and others is designed to give opportunities to players whose profiles need closer assessment. “There are new players in...