Former Barcelona forward Neymar Jr has shockingly been named in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a long absence with the Selacoas.
The Santos striker was confirmed as part of the team making the trip to North America during an announcement at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro by coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Although, the five-time world champions were divided over his potential inclusion, fans celebrated his return with wild jubilations after his name was mentioned.
Neymar Jr will be joining the team for the first time since 2023 as Brazil round up preparations for the tournament.
Meanwhile, the surprise omission in the Brazil team was the dropping of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro.
However, Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, Manchester United duo Matheus Cunha and Casemiro as well as Liverpool Alisson make the squad.
“We will have a list from which we can develop quality football, with a collective spirit,” said Ancelotti. “The perfect list isn’t there, I’m sure. I have to say that the perfect team won’t win the World Cup, a perfect team doesn’t exist. I think a more resilient team can win. We want to be the most resilient team in the world.
“I’m not afraid to say that we want to win the World Cup, because there are high expectations. Motivation is an important aspect in preparing for this World Cup.”
Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Haiti, Scotland and Morocco.
Brazil’s World Cup squad
Goalkeepers
Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
Defenders
Alex Sandro, Bremer, Danilo Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhees, Ibanez Leo Pereira, Marquinhos, Wesley
Midfielders
Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo Santos, Fabinho, Lucas Paqueta
Forwards
Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Neymar Junior, Raphinha, Rayan, Vinicius Junior
