Rivaldo: 'Ancelotti doesn't need anyone's advice'

Ancelotti was once embroiled in controversy when he did not call up Neymar to the national team. Photo: Reuters .

In an interview on June 4, Rivaldo said: "If Neymar is called up, there will be a lot of criticism aimed at the coach. Neymar has not played much since the 2022 World Cup. Protecting Neymar's health is necessary so that he can return to his best form."

Rivaldo insisted that no one should interfere with Ancelotti's decisions. "With his experience, Ancelotti doesn't need advice from anyone," Rivaldo added. "We need to let him work and wait for the results at the World Cup. However, success does not depend only on Ancelotti. The players must also work hard and dedicate themselves, because they are the ones playing on the pitch."

Neymar's absence from the Brazil national team's June training camp surprised many fans and experts. Explaining his decision, coach Ancelotti said: "In this call-up, I chose players in good form. Neymar has just returned from injury, everyone knows his talent, and we still believe in Neymar."

Neymar struggles to regain form at Santos. Photo: Reuters .

According to Ancelotti, ignoring Neymar this time does not mean that the former PSG star no longer has an important role in the team's future. He emphasized that Neymar will still be part of the "Selecao" plan in the journey towards the 2026 World Cup.

In addition to Neymar, Rivaldo also praised Antony's performance in recent times. "He has regained his form since returning to Spain. Antony has experience playing at the World Cup and is a player with personality on the pitch. With more than a year to prepare for the World Cup, Antony is a reasonable choice for the national team," said Rivaldo.

Ancelotti will make his debut with Brazil on June 6 against Ecuador. This will be the match that begins the journey to find a ticket to the 2026 World Cup of "Selecao" under the new coach.