Brazil’s World Cup squad has officially been announced, and one of Carlo Ancelotti’s biggest decisions has already sent shockwaves across the footballing world.
Heading into the tournament in 24 days, Brazil are widely regarded as favourites despite disappointing outings in recent editions.
Much of that optimism stems not only from the wealth of emerging talent within the squad but also from the arrival of the legendary former Real Madrid manager.
As expected, not every player will secure a place on the plane to the World Cup, with major omissions always inevitable. However, few anticipated that one of Europe’s most in-form strikers would be among the notable absentees.
Brazil’s World Cup Squad: Why The Decision To Take Neymar Instead Of João Pedro Has Divided Opinion
Ancelotti’s World Cup squad selection has included several major surprises, the most notable being Neymar.
Following a series of devastating long-term injuries (ACL tear in 2023) and a lack of consistent high-intensity football over the past 12 months with both Al Hilal and Santos, many questioned whether taking Neymar to the 2026 World Cup was truly the right decision.
However, his performances after overcoming some of the setbacks appear to have convinced Ancelotti that he is still capable of delivering at the highest level.
That decision, though, may have come at the expense of João Pedro, whose omission has sparked widespread debate.
Reports had earlier suggested that either Neymar or the Chelsea striker would make the Selecao World Cup squad, but the former ultimately got the nod.
Some observers believe the decision to include Neymar in Brazil’s World Cup squad was partly an emotional gamble, given his status as the country’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals, as well as his iconic influence within the national team setup.
While others also argue that his experience on the biggest stage, leadership presence in the dressing room, and ability to decide tight games with moments of individual brilliance may have tipped the balance in his favour, despite concerns over fitness and form.
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Why João Pedro’s Omission Is Highly Questionable
João Pedro’s exclusion from Brazil’s World Cup list has raised eyebrows, particularly given the season he has enjoyed individually.
Despite Chelsea enduring one of the most disappointing campaigns in the club’s recent history, the Blues striker has consistently been their standout performer.
Having registered 20 goals and six assists across all competitions, he currently looks more clinical than several attackers selected ahead of him.
Despite admitting in a recent interview that he prefers operating as a traditional number nine, his versatility could have been a major asset if included in Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad.
He is capable of playing as a supporting striker, drifting to the left flank, or even functioning as a creative number 10 — as he has done several times in the absence of Cole Palmer.
Unlike some of the experienced names included in the squad who are still battling fitness concerns or recovering from injury setbacks, João Pedro has maintained full intensity throughout the season without suffering any major long-term injuries.
Right now, he appears to be at the peak of his sharpness, which is why his omission has sparked debate over whether meritocracy truly remains the defining factor in national team selection.
João Pedro — who has been heavily linked with a move to Spanish giants FC Barcelona — on his official Instagram page expressed his disappointment after being left out.
He said: “I tried to give my best at all times. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused, as I always try to be. Joys and frustrations are part of football.
“From now on, I wish good luck to everyone who is there, and I will be just another fan cheering for them to bring the sixth title home”.
Tactical Implications For Brazil At The World Cup
Brazil head into the World Cup with only one genuine focal point capable of anchoring attacks and bringing wide players into the game: Brentford striker Igor Thiago.
Compared to several of the attackers selected ahead of him, João Pedro offers a superior work rate, greater tactical flexibility, and more physical dominance than almost all of them, with only Igor Thiago matching him in that regard.
Without a dynamic modern number nine like João Pedro to consistently occupy centre-backs, opponents can more easily double up on players such as Vinícius Júnior, Gabriel Martinelli, or Endrick.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Xinhua
Recording Date: 18.05.2026
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