Gabriel Jesus clip from February became painfully relevant overnight

Gabriel Jesus has not made the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup, despite harbouring hopes of making the trip back in February. Unfortunately, the competition for places was too strong, particularly with Neymar making a late push.

Over the next few weeks, national teams will start to put forward their final squads for the 2026 World Cup, played in Canada, Mexico and the United States of America. Some teams have already publicised their rosters, with Brazil being one of them.

Carlo Ancelotti is the new head coach of Brazil, and he personally unveiled his selections for this year's World Cup last night.

Gabriel Jesus was snubbed of his summer wish

Gabriel Jesus was not involved in the squad.

Back in February, Jesus was asked about potentially making the World Cup this summer, to which he remained optimistic about his chances. While, of course, he acknowledged the competition for places in the Brazil attack is difficult to navigate, he didn't rule out the possibility given his experience in two World Cups, provided he plays more games for Arsenal before the season ends.

"This [World Cup], I keep believing that I still have a chance to go," said Jesus, back in February 2026. "Obviously, we have amazing players. I think the competition is still open because for Brazil, like other nationalities, this one can be the hardest World Cup. Everyone has an amazing squad, amazing players."

"I want to be involved. If I keep playing when I get the chance here [at Arsenal], then keep showing that I'm able to help the team, then the coach there can look to see if I'm able to help [Brazil] as well."

Gabriel Jesus will cheer on two other Arsenal Gabriels

Gabriel Jesus didn't make Carlo Ancelotti's first ever World Cup team, but he will still be cheering for his beloved Brazil. They are always considered favourites going into the World Cup, and Brazil have two Arsenal players at the World Cup.

Officially, Gabriel Magalhães and Gabriel Martinelli have made the squad. Touch wood they are not injured, they will be making the trip to North America to play on the biggest stage of them all.

As far as Jesus is concerned, it is not ideal to be missing out on the World Cup, but he still has plenty of time. He is 29 years old, so he won't be at his peak when the 2030 World Cup rolls around, but he should still be within contention for that one. As Neymar proved, you're never too old to play for Brazil.

It is certainly not Gabriel Jesus' fault that he didn't make the squad. In all honesty, it is not Carlo Ancelotti's either.

At the end of the day, Brazil could only select 26 players, and only a handful of them could be attackers. It is simply a nice problem for Brazil to have that they need to snub players like Gabriel Jesus.

Even players like Richarlison, who has seen more of the field than Gabriel Jesus this season, were unable to make the team. When you have Vini Jr and Neymar in the same area of the pitch, it sets a standard of world-class or nothing else. Unfortunately, Jesus learned that the hard way.

Add us as a preferred source on Google