THE FUSE

The debate over Neymar’s inclusion has reached the highest levels of Brazilian society, illustrating the immense pressure on the coaching staff. Ancelotti even took the step of consulting President Lula, who questioned the player's professional motivation. Addressing the situation, Lula noted: "I had the chance to speak with Ancelotti, and he asked me: 'Do you think Neymar should be called up?' I said: 'Look, Ancelotti, if he’s physically fit, he’s got the football. What I need to know is whether he actually wants it.' If he does, then he has to be professional. He can look at someone like Cristiano Ronaldo, he can look at [Lionel] Messi, and still go to the national team, because he’s not old yet. But he can’t expect to go just on his name. He has to earn it on the pitch."