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Ancelotti confirms Neymar unhappy with substitute role at World Cup

Underused since the start of the 2026 World Cup, Neymar is frustrated on the Brazil bench. Carlo Ancelotti has publicly acknowledged his striker's discontent while praising his professional attitude in training.

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Ancelotti confirms Neymar unhappy with substitute role at World Cup
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Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged on Friday that Neymar was not satisfied with his substitute status in the Brazilian squad at the 2026 World Cup, ahead of the round of 16 clash against Norway and Erling Haaland.

“He is not happy, but he is behaving well,” said the Italian manager. “He trains very well. Neymar is very respectful, pleasant and appreciated by his teammates.” Praise that does not change the situation: Ancelotti clearly ruled out starting the Seleção’s all-time leading scorer (79 goals) against the Norwegians. “When I see that the team needs him, I will bring him in,” he clarified.

Neymar was absent in the first two group stage matches against Morocco and Haiti. He appeared for the first time in the competition in the 76th minute of the third match against Scotland. In the round of 16 against Japan (2-1), he remained on the bench for the entire match: Brazil’s victory, secured by Gabriel Martinelli in added time, made his introduction unnecessary.

His fitness remains below expectations, and Ancelotti appears to be managing his return to competition cautiously. The question of his participation against Norway at MetLife Stadium in New York remains open.

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