Brazil vs Bolivia: Neymar's inclusion in starting XI

Brazil's interim head coach, Fernando Diniz, faces tough decisions ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Bolivia, including the selection of injured Neymar.

In the upcoming World Cup qualifier at Estádio Olímpico do Pará, interim head coach Fernando Diniz faces crucial decisions for Brazil's national team. After a disappointing quarter-final exit in the 2022 World Cup, the Seleção has undergone a period of reflection. Diniz, the head coach of Fluminense, takes the reins temporarily and will lead Brazil for the first time in Belem.

Diniz's task is made more challenging by key players' injuries. Vinicius Jr from Real Madrid is unavailable due to a muscular injury sustained against Celta Vigo. Eder Militao, also from Real Madrid, is out of contention due to injury as well. However, Diniz can count on Neymar, who recently joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal but has yet to play for his new team. The 31-year-old has been sidelined since February with an ankle injury.

With over a decade of coaching experience in Brazil, Diniz has earned a reputation comparable to Manchester City's Pep Guardiola for his possession-oriented style of play. His preferred formation, a fluid 4-2-3-1, is likely to be implemented in the national team setup.

Here is our predicted lineup for both teams:

Brazil: Ederson - Danilo, Marquinho, Gabriel Magalhães, Renan Lodi - Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro - Rodrygo Goes, Neymar, Raphinha - Gabriel Jesus

Bolivia: Viscarra - Suarez, Justino, Roca - Media, Cuellar, Usino, Abrego, Terceros - Moreno, Arrascaita

Neymar, currently tied with Brazilian legend Pele as the nation's all-time leading scorer, needs just one more goal to claim the record outright. However, his inclusion in the squad has sparked controversy since he has yet to fully recover and play for Al-Hilal.

"I don't know why he was called up, he's injured," expressed Al-Hilal head coach Jorge Jesús. "Maybe they force him to go with Brazil."

As Brazil prepares to kick off their World Cup qualification campaign, Diniz's decisions and the team's performance will be under scrutiny. Can they start their journey with a victory against Bolivia?

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