Ancelotti s appointment sparks controversy: abandoning Neymar and calling Anthony

Ancelotti, who had just officially become the head coach of the Brazilian national team, made an unexpected decision on his first roster since taking office: abandon Neymar and recruit Anthony. This choice quickly sparked heated discussions among the media and fans.

This list is announced to prepare for the two 2026 US-Canada-Mexico World Cup South American qualifiers next month. Although Neymar, who is 32 years old, has just returned from injury and returned to Santos, he has not appeared in Ancelotti's first-item list, while Anthony, who currently plays for Real Betis, is on the list.

Anthony, 24, once joined Manchester United with a high price, but his performance at Old Trafford has not met expectations. After being loaned to La Liga Betis in January this year, he ushered in an explosive recovery. In 25 games that represented the team, Anthony contributed 9 goals and 5 assists, showing his long-lost form and game influence.

's selection for Brazil this time is regarded as Ancelotti's recognition of his performance and is also considered a key step for him to regain his trust in the national team. Whether this wing all-rounder can seize the opportunity and become an important member of Anshuai's new system is worth looking forward to.

Casemiro returns and injects leadership temperament

At the same time, 32-year-old Manchester United midfielder Casemiro also returns to the national team. The experienced veteran has worked with Ancelotti for many years at Real Madrid, and his return is believed to play a role in stabilizing the morale in the locker room, especially at a critical period when Brazil is in a critical period of alternating between old and new.

Nemar's defeat in the election has caused controversy

However, the most eye-catching thing is undoubtedly Neymar's absence. As a core figure in Brazilian football over the past decade, Neymar suffered a serious injury at the beginning of this season and did not return for Santos until recently. Ancelotti explained: "I want to choose the player in the best form at the moment. Neymar is very important to us and we look forward to his return at his best."

Despite this, this decision has caused quite a lot of controversy. Many fans and commentators questioned that even though Neymar's form has not yet fully recovered, he is still an indispensable soul figure in Brazil's offensive end.

Ancelotti's coaching debut will face Ecuador away on June 6, and then play at home against Paraguay on June 11. These two World Cup qualifiers will become an important stage for him to show his coaching philosophy and test his lineup adjustment.