Neymar has downplayed fitness concerns after being left out of Brazil’s squad for this week’s World Cup qualifiers, contradicting head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s explanation.
Ancelotti had suggested a “minor injury” was behind the forward’s omission, stressing the need for players to be in peak condition.
But speaking after completing 90 minutes in Santos’ 0-0 draw with Fluminense on Sunday, Neymar insisted the decision was purely technical.
“It was some swelling in my adductor, some discomfort, but nothing serious, so much so that I played today,” Neymar said.
“I was left out for technical reasons, it has nothing to do with my physical condition. It’s the coach’s opinion and I respect it.”
The 32-year-old, who returned to boyhood club Santos earlier this year after a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, has not featured for Brazil since 2023.
Brazil face Chile on Wednesday before travelling to Bolivia next week, with Ancelotti’s side currently third in the CONMEBOL standings, level on points with Ecuador and chasing leaders Argentina.
Ancelotti has called up a 25-man forward line that includes Estêvão, Gabriel Martinelli, João Pedro, Raphinha, Richarlison and Matheus Cunha.
