Neymar Returns as Ancelotti Names Brazil’s World Cup Squad

Brazil forward Neymar has been recalled to the national team squad for this summer’s World Cup, marking his return to international football after nearly two years away due to injury problems.

The 34-year-old Santos attacker was included in new head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad announced during a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro. Fans inside the venue erupted in applause when Neymar’s name was read out, underlining his continued popularity despite a difficult period with fitness issues.

Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, has not represented the Selecao since 2023. His inclusion means he is set to appear at a fourth World Cup after previously featuring in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions.

Speaking after the announcement, Ancelotti explained the reasoning behind recalling the veteran forward.

“We spent the entire year analysing Neymar,” the Italian coach said. “We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition.”

Ancelotti, 66, took charge of Brazil last year and will now oversee the country’s attempt to win a record-extending sixth World Cup title.

The squad also includes experienced names such as Alisson Becker, despite the Liverpool goalkeeper recently missing matches through injury. Midfielder Casemiro returns alongside fellow Premier League-based players including Bruno Guimaraes and Matheus Cunha.

Several younger talents have also earned selection. Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes, Brentford striker Igor Thiago and Bournemouth forward Rayan were all included, while teenage striker Endrick continues his rapid rise after impressing on loan at Lyon from Real Madrid.

However, there was disappointment for Chelsea forward Joao Pedro, who missed out despite recording 15 Premier League goals and five assists this season.

Brazil’s attacking options remain formidable, with Vinicius Junior and Raphinha also making the squad after strong campaigns in Spain.

Five-time world champions Brazil begin their Group C campaign against Morocco on 13 June before facing Haiti on 20 June and Scotland four days later. The expanded 48-team World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on 11 June.

Brazil World Cup squad

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).