RIO DE JANEIRO — Neymar has been included in Brazil’s World Cup roster, a decision that took many local analysts and former players by surprise just days prior.
At 34, Neymar stands as Brazil’s leading goal scorer with 79 goals and is set to make his fourth World Cup appearance. The Santos forward has faced challenges in regaining his top form since suffering a torn left ACL in October 2023.
“His fitness has been improving,” Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti stated at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro. “He will play a key role in this World Cup.”
Coach Ancelotti expressed a preference for seasoned players like Neymar in certain positions within the squad.
“He has time to get fitter before our first World Cup match,” Ancelotti noted. “His experience in this kind of competition brings a positive energy to the group.”
Shortly before the squad announcement, Neymar made an interesting update to his Instagram bio, expanding it beyond just Santos to include Brazil. This was the first time Ancelotti, who began his role in May 2025, called Neymar up to the squad.
The 26-man Brazilian roster features key players like Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, who have been central figures in recent years.
Newcomers to the World Cup squad include Endrick from Lyon and Rayan from Bournemouth, who secured their spots over João Pedro of Chelsea and Antony from Real Betis.
Ancelotti’s time as coach has been challenging, with several key injuries affecting the squad. The absence of Rodrygo and Estêvão is particularly disappointing for him as they head to North America.
“Selecting the 26 players was a tough task due to the high competition in this country. Unfortunately, some players who contributed will not make it on the list. I am grateful for their hard work,” Ancelotti commented.
“We believe this squad can deliver high-quality football with great teamwork, attitude, and focus. While this may not be the perfect lineup, perfection in team selection doesn’t exist.”
Ancelotti recently extended his contract with the Brazilian Football Confederation through the 2030 World Cup.
“We are fortunate to have the best coach in the world with us,” stated Samir Xaud, president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). “We must maximize this opportunity. One year of work is insufficient, and I was adamant about renewing his contract before the World Cup, regardless of the outcome, as I believe he has much to offer Brazilian soccer.”
Brazil will kick off their World Cup campaign against Morocco in New Jersey on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland as part of Group C.
Brazil’s World Cup Squad:
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Éderson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Grêmio)
Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Léo Pereira (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Ibañez (Al-Ahli), Wesley (Roma), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Douglas Santos (Zenit St. Petersburg)
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad), Lucas Paquetá (Flamengo)
Forwards: Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid), Luiz Henrique (Zenit St. Petersburg), Neymar (Santos), Rayan (Bournemouth)
Reported by the Associated Press.