Brazil forward Neymar has been included in head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Neymar’s inclusion in the squad indicates both a comeback story and a calculated gamble ahead of a demanding global tournament.
The 34-year-old, who now plays for Brazilian side Santos, is the country’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances.
However, he has not played for the Selecao since 2023 amid his struggles with injuries.
Making the squad means Neymar will feature at a fourth World Cup having also played for Brazil at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.
Head Coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed his squad at a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro and fans cheered when Neymar’s name was announced. The moment captured both relief and belief among supporters eager to see their talisman return.
The 66-year-old Italian experienced gaffer, who was appointed by Brazil last year, said: “We spent the entire year analysing Neymar. We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition”.
His words suggest confidence in Neymar’s readiness, even after a prolonged absence from international action. Still, questions remain about durability over a packed tournament schedule.
Alisson Becker, who has missed Liverpool’s last 10 games through injury, has been selected. He is joined by Manchester United pair Casemiro and Matheus Cunha.
Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, Arsenal defender Gabriel, and Brentford striker Igor Thiago are also included.
Bournemouth forward Rayan adds youthful energy to an already balanced attacking lineup.
However, Chelsea forward Joao Pedro and midfielder Andrey Santos both miss out. Pedro has been overlooked despite being the Blues’ top scorer in the Premier League this season.
His omission introduces debate, especially after recording 15 goals and five assists.
Other players who have made the cut include La Liga stars Vinicius Junior and Raphinha. Additionally, 19-year-old striker Endrick, on loan at Lyon from Real, continues his rapid rise.
Neymar leads Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad as Ancelotti blends experience, youth, and attacking firepower
Five-time winners Brazil take on Morocco on 13 June, Haiti on 20 June and Scotland in their final Group C game.
Each fixture presents a different tactical challenge as the tournament unfolds.The expanded 48-team World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico starts on 11 June.
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Brazil squad for 2026 World Cup:
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio).
Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Ibanez (Al-Ahli), Wesley (Roma), Marquinhos (Paris St-Germain), Gabriel (Arsenal), Douglas Santos (Zenit St. Petersburg).
Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo Santos (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo).
Forwards: Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Luiz Henrique (Zenit St. Petersburg), Neymar (Santos), Rayan (Bournemouth).
