Neymar is in line for a Brazil recall, with Carlo Ancelotti prepared to leave out a major name to make room for the 34-year-old in the brazil world cup squad 2026. Brazil's 26-man squad is expected to be announced on Monday, and the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward could be back after not playing for his country since 2023.
The move would mark a sharp turn in Neymar's international fortunes. reported that he has managed to swing the picture back in his favor after Ancelotti previously said his chances of making the squad were slim. The Italy-born coach has now made clear that Neymar's ability is not in doubt, saying: “He is a great talent. What we have to look for with him is not if he’s able to trap the ball or pass the ball.” His focus, he added, is whether the forward's condition is good.
Neymar's case has always rested on more than reputation. He spent two injury-hit seasons with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, then rejoined Santos last year and produced a reminder of his value by scoring 17 goals and adding eight assists as the club survived relegation. He remains Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, a record that still carries weight even as his body has repeatedly tested the limits of his career.
Brazil's attack, though, is crowded. Raphinha, Vinicius Jr, Matheus Cunha and Gabriel Martinelli are all expected to be in the squad, while Endrick, Igor Thiago and Rayan are also possible contenders. Chelsea striker Joao Pedro is at risk of missing out despite scoring 20 goals in his debut campaign since arriving from Brighton & Hove Albion, including 15 Premier League goals. Estevao is ruled out because of a hamstring issue suffered in April.
That makes the final call more delicate for Ancelotti than simply deciding whether Neymar is fit. Brazil are trying to win their first World Cup since 2002, and the forward line is deep enough that every omission will carry a cost. The squad will face Morocco on June 13, Haiti on June 20 and Scotland on June 24 in Group C, with the opening stretch leaving little room for a slow start. If Neymar is named, it will be because Brazil believe the player who once defined their attack can still help decide another tournament.
