Carlo Ancelotti bows to public pressure to call up Neymar for Brazil’s World Cup squad | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has bowed to public pressure and included Neymar in his 26-man World Cup squad, as the Seleção chase a sixth star after 24 years.

On Monday night in Rio, about 100 fans gathered outside the Museu do Amanhã to wish the team well and demand Neymar’s inclusion.

Previously distant from Brazil’s record scorer, who has 79 goals in 128 caps, Ancelotti sensed the groundswell despite recent controversies, including spats with a Santos supporter and with Robinho Jr, and uneven displays. He also heeded appeals from Vinicius Jr, Raphinha and Casemiro to head to the United States with their number 10, even if short of his best.

After a long musical prelude and sponsor speeches, he addressed more than 1,200 guests and 700 accredited journalists. With the list tightly guarded, he hinted at better to come, then named the forwards alphabetically. After Endrick, came Neymar, and the room erupted.

Ancelotti said Neymar had been assessed all year and remains important for this tournament, but carries the same responsibilities as everyone else. He could start, come on or sit out, and will play only if he earns it. The coach added that expectations should not be pinned on one player.

Some filmed and embraced, while Bebeto and Jorginho looked stunned. The crowd then chanted Ancelotti’s name as if after a golaço. Now it is up to Neymar to live up to the hopes around him.

Source: L'Équipe