Neymar vents after Santos absence, Carlo Ancelotti to watch, says it is very hard to be him | OneFootball

Neymar will miss Santos at Mirassol on Tuesday, 21:30, at the Maião, in the fifth round, with muscle pain. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti will attend.

The forward had 12 days’ preparation, much of it limited to physical work, and only resumed full training on Sunday. On social media he railed at speculation, saying he is judged whatever he does and that it is hard to please everyone or be himself.

Santos say he is not injured and that resting him was agreed with the coaching staff, a call made days ago despite his return to tactical work.

His omission surprised and frustrated the CBF and Ancelotti, who wanted to watch the number 10 play in the São Paulo interior.

Being spared could cost Neymar a call-up on 16 March. Ancelotti will not see him as planned, and it is considered unlikely he will make the final list for the friendlies against France and Croatia.

Before 16 March he is due only to face Corinthians on Sunday, while Ancelotti watches Botafogo v Flamengo at Nilton Santos. The CBF will instead send Mino Fulco, Franchesco Mauri, Bruno Baquete and goalkeeping coach Taffarel to Vila Belmiro.

Santos expect him back at the weekend to meet Corinthians in the sixth round. Brazil play France on 26 March and Croatia on 31 March, with Ancelotti to finalise his World Cup squad in May.

Source: Globo.com