Neymar Returns to Brazil Squad Ahead of World Cup

Brazil forward Neymar has been named in head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup after nearly two years away from the national team due to injury struggles.

The 34-year-old Santos attacker, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, last featured for the Selecao in 2023. His inclusion means he is set to play at a fourth World Cup, having previously represented Brazil at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Ancelotti announced the squad during a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, where supporters cheered loudly after Neymar’s name was read out. The Italian coach explained that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star earned his place after showing signs of fitness and consistency in recent months.

“We spent the entire year analysing Neymar.

“We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition”.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has also been selected despite missing his club’s last 10 matches through injury. Manchester United duo Casemiro and Matheus Cunha are included alongside Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, Arsenal defender Gabriel, Brentford striker Igor Thiago and Bournemouth forward Rayan.

Chelsea forward Joao Pedro, however, failed to make the final squad despite finishing as the Blues’ top scorer in the Premier League this season with 15 goals and five assists.

Brazil’s attacking options also feature Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, Barcelona star Raphinha and teenage striker Endrick, who spent the season on loan at Lyon from Real Madrid.

Five-time world champions Brazil will begin their Group C campaign against Morocco on 13 June before facing Haiti on 20 June. They will then take on Scotland four days later in their final group game.

The expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on 11 June.

Brazil World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton.

Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Pereira, Bremer, Ibanez, Wesley, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos.

Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo Santos, Fabinho, Lucas Paqueta.

Forwards: Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Vinicius Junior, Luiz Henrique, Neymar and Rayan.