Brazil’s World Cup dream takes a major hit. While Neymar is officially back in the mix for a potential fourth World Cup run, Chelsea winger Estêvão has been left off Carlo Ancelotti’s 55-man list due to a lingering thigh injury.
Brazil forward Estêvão will not participate in the 2026 World Cup as he has been omitted from the 55-player preliminary list prepared by coach Carlo Ancelotti on Monday, despite Neymar’s inclusion in the extended list, according to ESPN’s insider Pedro Ivo Almeida.
Estêvão’s prospects for the World Cup were already dim after sustaining a thigh injury in Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat against Manchester United on April 18, as per sources.
There were expectations that the 19-year-old would be able to recover before his first World Cup, but the medical experts working for both Brazil and Chelsea could not assure 100 percent recovery of the player in time for the tournament.
The Heartbreak for Estêvão
The player himself was well aware that he won’t be participating in the World Cup, and it was evident from his disappointed look when he arrived at his former club Palmeiras to get some treatment last week.
All national teams have until May 11 to submit their 55-man list to FIFA, and while it remains confidential, this list forms the basis of the final squad selection process.
Neymar’s Last Dance?
Forward Neymar, 34, moved one step closer to qualifying for a fourth World Cup appearance as he found a place among the 55 players in the squad, sources informed. Brazil’s record goalscorer (79 goals) did not make the cut for the national squad since the appointment of Ancelotti in June.
Even without suffering an injury, Estêvão was expected to make the flight to Qatar as Ancelotti is a big fan of the Chelsea star. The youngster has contributed eight goals to his team through 36 games since joining Chelsea from Palmeiras in £29m ($38m) transfer deal last season.
The “Injury Ward” Grows
As such, Estêvão joins other key figures like Éder Militão and Rodrygo of Real Madrid, who would’ve been sure to play under Ancelotti, but missed out due to injury problems.
