Goulart not included in France's FIFA World Cup squad

**FIFA World Cup Squad Excludes Goulart: A Sign of Global Diversity**

In the annals of football history, few names have captured the imagination and hearts of fans worldwide as much as Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, affectionately known as Neymar "The Beautiful One." The Brazilian superstar is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, with an impressive array of accolades including six Ballon d'Or awards and numerous other international honors.

However, despite his global fame and contributions to football, Neymar was notably absent from France's FIFA World Cup squad for the 2018 tournament. This omission has sparked debate among football enthusiasts and experts alike, questioning whether it represents a genuine reflection of diversity within the sport or simply reflects the priorities of the French national team.

The decision to exclude Neymar from the squad was made on March 24, 2018, after the initial announcement that he would be part of the starting lineup. While the reasons behind this exclusion remain unclear, some speculate that Neymar's age (he turned 26 at the time) might have been a factor. However, this explanation seems less compelling given that several other younger players who were initially considered for the squad did not make the final cut.

The absence of Neymar from the French squad also highlights the broader issue of racial representation in professional sports. Despite the significant progress made in recent years towards inclusivity, football remains a predominantly white-dominated industry. This disparity can be seen in the composition of teams at various levels, including the World Cup, where many top-tier players come from Europe.

Some argue that the exclusion of Neymar serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for greater diversity in sports. By showcasing the talent of players like him, the French national team could inspire more young people, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue careers in football.

While the exact reason for Neymar's absence from the World Cup squad may never be fully understood, it does serve as a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for inclusion and equality in the world of sports. As football continues to evolve and grow in popularity across the globe, it is essential that we continue to work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse sporting landscape.