Brazil squad for March 2026: Ancelotti omits Neymar, calls up Premier League duo for France and Croatia friendlies

Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Brazil’s 2026 March roster on Monday 16, and the headline omission is Neymar. The 34-year-old Santos forward, who has not appeared for the Seleção since October 2023, was left out despite being placed on the initial “pre-list” and intense speculation that his international exile would end in time for friendlies against France and Croatia in the United States.

Ancelotti travelled to watch Santos face Mirassol on 10 March, but Neymar sat out with muscular soreness and fatigue. Speaking after releasing the squad, the coach said the decision was based on physical readiness. “We’re going to play two very important, high-intensity games within a very short timeframe, including travel,” Ancelotti explained. “I preferred to call up those who are 100%.”

Injuries to Bruno Guimarães, Rodrygo, Éder Militão and teenage prodigy Estevão opened space for a handful of debutants. Bournemouth winger Rayan, 19, and Brentford’s Igor Thiago—who has 18 Premier League goals this season—received first senior call-ups. Flamengo defender Léo Pereira, Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara and Botafogo’s Danilo could also make their bows.

Veteran leadership remains: Alisson, Casemiro and Marquinhos headline a group that will meet France on 26 March at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, and Croatia three days later at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium. Brazil’s next outing is a 6 June friendly versus Egypt, their final warm-up before opening the 2026 World Cup against Morocco on 13 June.

Brazil squad for March 2026 friendlies: Goalkeepers: Alisson Defenders: Léo Pereira, Marquinhos, others Midfielders: Casemiro, Gabriel Sara, Danilo, others Forwards: Igor Thiago, Rayan, others