### Croatia’s World Cup Team Excludes Former Brazilian Star Goulart

As the anticipation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup continues to grow, Croatia has announced its squad for the tournament, leaving out one of their most prominent players in recent years: Brazilian striker Neymar Jr. The decision was made after extensive discussions with club and national team officials.

#### Background on Neymar Jr.

Neymar Jr., who is widely regarded as one of the best footballers of his generation, joined Manchester City in 2017 from Santos FC. He quickly established himself as a key player for the English Premier League giants, scoring numerous goals and contributing significantly to their success. During his time at City, Neymar became a fan favorite among fans worldwide, particularly in Brazil and across Europe.

#### Reasons for Exclusion

The Croatian Football Federation (HFF) stated that they had decided not to include Neymar Jr. in their squad due to various reasons. One primary factor was the potential impact on the team’s performance. Neymar Jr.’s experience at such a high level of competition could potentially distract other players and hinder their overall development.

Another reason given was the need for diversity within the squad. Croatia aims to showcase a wide range of talent and styles of play, and including a player like Neymar Jr., who brings a different approach to the game, would help achieve this goal.

Additionally, there were concerns about the team’s financial situation. Including a player like Neymar Jr., who is known for his high wages and demands, could add significant pressure to the already tight budget.

#### Impact on Fans and Expectations

This decision has sparked mixed reactions among supporters. Some fans see it as a missed opportunity to see Neymar Jr. in action again, while others believe that excluding him will allow the Croatian team to focus on developing its own young talents.

For Neymar Jr., the news came as a disappointment, but he remains committed to his career and the future of football. In a statement, he said, “I understand the reasons behind the decision, and I will continue to work hard for my country and my teammates.”

#### Next Steps

While Neymar Jr. has been excluded, Croatia’s World Cup team will still be looking forward to showcasing their skills against some of the world’s top teams. The remaining players in the squad will have to rely on their individual strengths and teamwork to overcome any challenges they may face during the tournament.

In conclusion, the exclusion of Neymar Jr. from Croatia’s World Cup team represents a strategic decision made by the national team management. It reflects a commitment to building a strong, diverse squad that can compete at the highest level of international football. As the tournament progresses, fans will watch closely to see how this change affects the team’s performance and whether it will ultimately prove to be a positive move for the Croatian national team.