Carlo Ancelotti is set to drop the biggest bombshell of the 2026 World Cup buildup next Monday (18) when he unveils Brazil's final 26-man squad. But the burning question on every fan's mind—will Neymar make the cut?—has already dominated headlines, and the veteran Italian manager isn't shying away from the pressure.

In a candid interview with Reuters this Tuesday (12), Ancelotti addressed the Neymar dilemma head-on, dismissing any notion that the Santos superstar could be a "dressing-room bomb." "Neymar is very loved. Not only by the people, but also by the players. If you call up Neymar, you are not bringing a bomb into the locker room, because he is very dear, very loved," Ancelotti explained, adding a touch of humor: "I thank everyone who has given me advice."

With the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) submitting a preliminary 55-man list to FIFA on Monday (11), Neymar's name is firmly in the mix. Ancelotti acknowledged the forward's recent resurgence, noting that his improved physical conditioning over the past 15 to 20 days has been a game-changer. "Neymar is an important player for this country, because of the talent he has always shown," Ancelotti said. "He had a problem, but he is recovering. He is working hard and playing consistently."

Still, the 63-year-old tactician admitted that whittling down to 26 names is no walk in the park. "Obviously, for me, it is not such a simple decision. I have to carefully assess the pros and cons," he said, but he remains confident in his process. "I am the most suitable person to make this decision. Because the information I have about all Brazilian players this year, no one else has. Can I make a perfect list? Impossible. But I can make a list with fewer mistakes compared to others. Of that, I am sure."

As the countdown to Monday's announcement ticks on, one thing is clear: Ancelotti is betting on experience, data, and a deep respect for Neymar's legacy to guide his final call. Whether that means the No. 10 will trade Santos blue for Brazil's iconic yellow remains the ultimate cliffhanger.