Brazil national football team head coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced Brazil’s 26-member squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirming the return of Neymar to the national team setup after nearly three years away from international football. The veteran forward, who has not represented Brazil since 2023, is expected to feature in what could be the final World Cup appearance of his career as Brazil chases a record-extending sixth world title.

Ancelotti said Neymar’s experience and leadership played a major role in his inclusion despite recent fitness concerns. The Brazil coach stated that the 34-year-old had improved physically and would continue building match fitness before the tournament begins. Neymar recently returned to Brazilian club football with Santos FC after a spell with Al Hilal and remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals. He has previously scored eight goals across three FIFA World Cup appearances.

The squad also includes several of Brazil’s current attacking stars, including Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, and Matheus Cunha. Young talents Endrick and Rayan earned their first World Cup call-ups after impressing at club level. Ancelotti opted to blend youth with experienced players as Brazil attempts to reclaim football’s biggest prize for the first time since 2002.

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One of the biggest talking points from the announcement was the exclusion of João Pedro, who had been widely expected to make the final squad. The Chelsea striker missed out as Ancelotti preferred other attacking options led by Neymar and Vinícius Júnior. The coach also overlooked Antony despite his recent performances, signaling a shift toward a younger and more balanced attacking setup ahead of the tournament.

Brazil’s squad also features experienced names across midfield and defense, including Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Marquinhos, and Alisson Becker. The selection reflects Ancelotti’s emphasis on tactical balance and tournament experience as he prepares for his first major international competition in charge of Brazil. Neymar’s return is expected to provide emotional and strategic leadership within the squad, especially for younger players entering the World Cup environment for the first time.

Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against the Morocco national football team in New Jersey on June 13 before taking on the Haiti national football team and the Scotland national football team in their remaining Group C matches. Expectations remain high for the five-time champions, with fans hoping Neymar’s return and Ancelotti’s leadership can guide the Seleção back to global glory after more than two decades without lifting the World Cup trophy.

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