Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a major surprise at a glittering gala ceremony in Rio de Janeiro on Monday when he named Neymar in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup.
After nearly three years away from the national team, the Brazil superstar earned a sensational recall. The coach shocked everyone by including the veteran forward in the squad chasing a record sixth World Cup title. Brazil opens its campaign against Morocco on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in Group C.
Moreover, Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, returns as a veteran of the 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments. He had not featured for the Seleção since suffering a knee injury in a 2023 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.
Furthermore, the 34-year-old forward rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January 2025 after an injury-plagued spell in Saudi Arabia. He impressed Ancelotti with his form upon returning home. In his latest stint with Santos, Neymar contributed strongly, netting 4 goals and 2 assists in 8 Serie A appearances this 2026 season.
Finally, the squad blends experience and youth as Brazil prepares to compete on home soil for North America (United States, Canada, and Mexico). Ancelotti’s bold call on Neymar adds creativity and star power to an already formidable attack featuring Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Endrick, and others.
Brazil 2026 World Cup Squad:
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio)
Defenders: Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Danilo (Flamengo), Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Ibanez (Al-Ahli), Marquinhos (PSG), Wesley (Roma)
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad), Lucas Paquetá (Flamengo)
Forwards: Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Neymar (Santos), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
Fans now eagerly await the tournament as Neymar aims to write another unforgettable chapter in his legendary career.