Brazil’s Ancelotti Names Neymar in 2026 World Cup Squad
Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, makes his long-awaited return to the national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has included forward Neymar in the nation's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made at a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.
Neymar had not played for the national team since suffering a knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in 2023. He was absent from Brazil's March friendlies against France and Croatia due to fitness concerns. The 34-year-old rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January 2026 after a stint in Saudi Arabia, though injuries have limited him to 15 appearances in 31 matches since his return.
"We monitored Neymar throughout the year and observed that, in recent times, he has been playing consistently and his physical condition has improved. We believe he is an important player." – Carlo Ancelotti
Neymar, who has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, joins an attacking lineup that includes Raphinha and Vinicius Junior. Notable omissions include Premier League forwards Joao Pedro and Richarlison, who were not selected for the squad.