Neymar rested by Santos for Mirassol after Brazil pre-selection | OneFootball

Neymar has been pre-selected by Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil’s friendlies against France and Croatia, but Santos have rested him for the trip to Mirassol on Tuesday night, kick-off 1.30am French time. He had been earmarked for in-person assessment by the national coach. His immediate return to the Seleção remains in the balance.

According to Globo, the 34-year-old missed several on-pitch tactical and technical sessions last week to focus on gym work. He rejoined full training on Sunday, yet is not considered 100% for Mirassol. The club opted days ago for a precautionary rest and expect him back for the next league game, while stressing he has no injury.

The forward injured his knee in December, returned on 16 February, then struck a brace 10 days later against Vasco de Gama. Even so, he will sit out the fifth round of Brazil’s Serie A at Mirassol.

Ancelotti had planned to attend in Mirassol to gauge Neymar’s fitness before any possible call-up. The Italian has led the Seleção since May 2025.

He will name his official squad on Monday 16 March for Brazil’s final World Cup warm-ups, against France on 26 March and Croatia on one April, both in Boston.

With no clear assurance over the national team’s record scorer, 79 goals in 128 caps, Ancelotti could choose caution and leave Neymar out next Monday. The forward has just one more chance to stake a claim, the derby with Corinthians on Sunday night.

Source: L'Équipe