Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. has officially returned to the Brazil national team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti announced the 26-man squad, with Neymar’s inclusion becoming one of the biggest talking points due to his injury struggles in recent years.
According to a statement released by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Neymar returns after missing many international matches since 2023 because of knee injuries.
However, Ancelotti said he included the forward because of his vast experience, his ability to change games, and the progress he has shown since returning to action with Santos FC.
Many Brazilian fans have welcomed Neymar’s return with excitement, as he is now set to play in his fourth FIFA World Cup after appearing in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments. Ancelotti appears to be building a squad that combines experience with young talent in pursuit of Brazil’s sixth world title.
Brazil’s 26-Man Squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Goalkeepers
- Alisson Becker
- Ederson
- Weverton
Defenders
- Marquinhos
- Gabriel Magalhães
- Bremer
- Roger Ibañez
- Danilo
- Alex Sandro
- Wesley
- Douglas Santos
- Léo Pereira
Midfielders
- Casemiro
- Bruno Guimarães
- Lucas Paquetá
- João Gomes
- Fabinho
- Andrey Santos
- Gabriel Sara
Forwards
- Neymar Jr.
- Vinícius Júnior
- Raphinha
- Gabriel Martinelli
- Endrick
- Matheus Cunha
- Igor Thiago
Brazil are in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland, and will begin their World Cup campaign on June 13, 2026. Many fans now believe Neymar’s return could give Brazil renewed strength in their quest to win a sixth world title.
