This archive report was first published on 17 August 2019.
On August 16, 2019, Brazil coach Tite announced the squad for friendlies against Colombia and Peru, with Neymar included despite his uncertain future at Paris Saint-Germain.
The world's most expensive player has been plagued by an ankle injury that ruled him out of last month's Copa America success, where Brazil defeated Peru.
Authorities in Brazil had recently dropped an investigation into rape allegations against Neymar due to insufficient evidence, accusations he had vehemently denied.
Tite stated that he had spoken to Neymar, who said he was happy, but acknowledged that he was not doing tactical work.
"I will not abandon an athlete of Neymar's level and quality," Tite said, explaining he wanted to give him playing time.
Brazil will face Colombia on September 6 in Miami and Peru on September 10 in Los Angeles.
