Neymar Jr has been named in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad despite doubts over his fitness. The 34-year-old, who is Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals, has not played for his country since 2023 due to ACL injuries.
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Brazil manager Carlo Ancelloti named his 26-man squad on Monday evening, including Neymar to loud cheers by fans. He also explained why he included the former Barcelona star in the list, and overlooked several attacking players including Chelsea’s Joao Pedro, Tottenham’s Richarlison and Real Betis’ Antony. The Italian tactician highlighted the Santos star’s experience at the highest level as the reason.
“He has improved his fitness,” Ancelotti explained, as quoted by ESPN. “He will be an important player in this World Cup. He has experience in this kind of competition, the love of our group; he can create a better environment in this group.
“We chose Neymar not because we think he’ll be a good substitute. We chose Neymar because we believe he can help the team, whether it’s for one minute, five minutes, 90 minutes or even taking a penalty.”
Other notable names in the list include Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, Arsenal’s Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli, Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, Man Utd’s Casemiro and Matheus Cunha and Bournemouth’s Rayan. Newcomers include Lyon loanee Endrick and Bournmouth’s Rayan.
Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco in New Jersey on June 13. The Selecao will also face Haiti and Scotland in the group stage.
Brazil 2026 World Cup full sqaud
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio).
Defenders: Marquinhos (PSG), Gabriel (Arsenal), Bremer (Juventus), Ibanez (Al Ahli), Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Wesley (Roma), Danilo (Flamengo), Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit).
Midfielders: Casemiro (Manchester United), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Fabinho (Al Ittihad), Danilo (Botafogo), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo).
Forwards: Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Endrick (Lyon/Real Madrid), Martinelli (Arsenal), Rayan (Bournemouth), Neymar (Santos).
