Brazilian superstar Neymar has been recalled to Brazil’s national squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking his return to international football after nearly three years.
Image: SEN
The 34-year-old forward was included in the 26-man squad announced by Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti during a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro on Monday.
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, has not played for the national team since suffering a knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in 2023.
His return follows months of speculation regarding his fitness and form after an injury-hit period that included an unsuccessful spell in Saudi Arabia before rejoining Brazilian club Santos earlier this year.
Ancelotti said the coaching staff had closely monitored Neymar’s progress and believed his recent performances and improved fitness justified his inclusion.
“We monitored Neymar throughout the year and observed that, in recent times, he has been playing consistently and his physical condition has improved,” Ancelotti said. “We believe he is an important player.”
Despite recurring injuries limiting his appearances since returning to Santos, Neymar has regained a place in a Brazilian side aiming to win a record sixth World Cup title.
Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 before facing Haiti and Scotland in Group C.
Neymar joins an attacking line-up featuring players including Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli and Endrick.
Ancelotti also said resilience would be key to success at the tournament, stating that “the most resilient team” rather than a perfect one would win the World Cup.
