Neymar Named in Brazil's 2026 World Cup Squad as Ancelotti Makes His Call

Neymar has been included in Brazil‘s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming the selection on Monday. The decision ends months of speculation over whether the forward, sidelined for much of the qualifying cycle due to recurring injuries, would earn a place in the final group.

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The 34-year-old, Brazil‘s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals, has not featured for the national side since 2023. His return comes as the five-time world champions chase a record-extending sixth title. The squad announcement was held at Rio de Janeiro‘s Museum of Tomorrow, drawing dozens of journalists alongside music acts and celebrity guests, all waiting on one name.

Read also: Carlo Ancelotti Signs Four-Year Brazil Extension, Commits to 2030 World Cup Cycle

Ancelotti, who took charge of Brazil‘s men’s national team last year and had not previously called up Neymar, was measured in his reasoning.

“We evaluated Neymar throughout the year and noticed that recently he has been playing consistently and has improved his physical condition. He has the same role and responsibilities as everyone else, but he is an experienced player. It’s true that in some positions we prioritised experience.”

Earlier this month, Ancelotti stated publicly that any inclusion would hinge on fitness and form, not sentiment. Neymar‘s record at Al Hilal was injury-marred, and his return to boyhood club Santos drew mixed reviews. Still, the forward pushed his case heading into the announcement.

“Physically, I feel great. I’ve been improving with every game,” Neymar told reporters after Santos‘ 3-0 defeat to Coritiba on Sunday.

The remainder of the squad is built around the core that carried Brazil through qualifying and recent friendlies. Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, and Endrick all retained their spots in attack alongside Neymar.

Several prominent names were absent. Real Madrid striker Rodrygo, defender Eder Militao, and Chelsea winger Estevao were ruled out through injury. Chelsea forward Joao Pedro, midfielder Andrey Santos, and Real Betis winger Antony were also left out.

“Some of the players who were with us this year won’t be happy with this list. I’m sorry, and I want to thank everyone who was with us,” Ancelotti said.

Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13th in New Jersey, with Haiti and Scotland also in Group C.

Brazil’s Full 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 St Petersburg)
• Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)
• Ibanez (Al-Ahli)
• Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain)
• Wesley (Roma)

Midfielders

• Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)
• Casemiro (Manchester United)
• Danilo (Botafogo)
• Fabinho (Al-Ittihad)
• Lucas Paqueta (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)

Stay on TipsGG for full World Cup 2026 coverage, squad updates, and match previews as Brazil build toward their Group C opener.