Neymar Jr has been named in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, set to mark his fourth appearance at football’s biggest tournament. The decision was not straightforward, with concerns over Neymar’s long-term fitness following an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered more than two years ago. However, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the forward has made strong progress in his recovery. Speaking after the squad announcement in Rio de Janeiro, Ancelotti said Neymar’s physical condition has improved significantly and emphasized that he will play an important role in Brazil’s World Cup campaign. Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 international goals, returned to his boyhood club Santos FC last year after a spell with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal. He has previously scored eight goals across the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups and will now aim to help Brazil secure their first World Cup title since 2002. João Pedro left out of squad One of the biggest talking points from the announcement was the omission of João Pedro. The Chelsea forward was widely expected to earn his first World Cup call-up at the age of 24 after featuring in Brazil’s recent international setups. However, Ancelotti opted for other attacking options, including Vinícius Júnior, Rayan Cherki, and Igor Thiago, leaving João Pedro out of the final selection. Post navigation Eintracht Frankfurt women: rebuilding toward a return to European glory
