Part of Carletto's WC shortlist leaked: Neymar makes the initial cut

So far, so good for Neymar, as he appears to have made the first cut when it comes to the Brazil squad for the upcoming World Cup. At least, that's what Brazilian media outlet ge.globo claims.

The source has exclusively revealed 49 names Carlo Ancelotti reportedly included in his preliminary 55-man squad for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, which the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) sent to FIFA.

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Given that the 34-year-old forward's status was the biggest question mark, his presence is the headline news. However, since the Italian strategist can call up only 26 players for the WC, Neymar still has a long way to go until he makes the final cut.

Apart from him, Ancelotti allegedly opted for a group of highly experienced defenders (Alex Sandro, Danilo, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva) as well as several teenage forwards, such as the Real Madrid loanee at Olympique Lyon, Endrick, and Rayan of Bournemouth.

Excluding players from the domestic Brazilian Serie A, the Premier League is the most represented league with 13 names, while Los Blancos' duo Eder Militao and Rodrygo, along with Estevao of Chelsea, were left out due to injury.

Carletto's final 26-man squad is expected to be unveiled next Monday (May 18).