Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar ‘can play 90 minutes’ before Brazil v Norway last-16 tie | OneFootball

Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar is ready to play a full match as Brazil face Norway in the last 16 on Sunday at 22:00. "The important thing is that he can play. When I see the team needs him, I will bring him on. But yes, he is ready to play 90 minutes," he told Folha de São Paulo.

The 34-year-old has had a calf problem and has been used only from the bench so far. He did not confirm that he will start against Norway.

"He is not happy, but he is behaving very well," Ancelotti said. "He is respectful, kind and appreciated by his team-mates."

"He does not come demanding, saying, 'I want to play', but it is quite obvious. And that is positive. A player cannot be happy on the bench."

Neymar returned during the tournament and has played only 20 minutes, against Scotland in the final group game when the score was already 3-0. He did not come on in the 2-1 round-of-32 win over Japan.

Ancelotti still prefers to manage his minutes step by step. He has settled on a front three of Rayan, Cunha and Vinicius, but Lucas Paqueta’s injury, the most attacking of the three midfielders, could open the door for the No 10.

Source: L'Équipe