‘Better on one leg than most’, Ronaldinho slams Neymar’s exclusion

World Cup-winning legend Ronaldinho has launched a scathing attack on Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti for dropping Neymar from the national squad, insisting the 34-year-old Santos winger remains superior to most players currently wearing the Seleção jersey.

Speaking on a recent podcast, the 45-year-old former Barcelona and AC Milan star made no attempt to hide his frustration. Ancelotti had left Neymar out of Brazil's squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. 

"Neymar, even playing on one leg, is currently better than most Brazilian footballers," Ronaldinho said. "Honestly, I just don't find watching the Brazil national team as exciting as I used to. Neymar must be included in the squad for the World Cup."

Neymar himself had broken his silence over the snub for the first time. "I am disappointed and hurt," he said, offering a rare glimpse into his state of mind.

The 2026 World Cup is widely expected to be the final chapter of Neymar's storied career, yet his chances of making the squad appear to be narrowing with each passing week. 

With no major matches left for Brazil before the tournament, Ancelotti's decision to omit him from these two friendlies is being widely interpreted as a signal of his World Cup intentions.

The situation has sparked fierce tension within Brazilian football, with fans and legends alike divided over the veteran forward's future in the national setup.