Neymar Included in Brazil's Preliminary 2026 World Cup Roster

Neymar has been included in Brazil’s 55-man preliminary roster for the 2026 World Cup, officially announced by Carlo Ancelotti on May 11, 2026. For months, speculation centered not on Brazil's status as a contender but on whether Neymar would return to the national team after a long absence due to injury.

Neymar's last appearance for Brazil was in 2023 when he sustained a knee injury during a match against Uruguay. Following that injury, he was absent for nearly three years from the Seleção, leading many to believe his international career might be over, especially after his name was left off the roster for March friendlies against France and Croatia.

Ancelotti had previously stated that only players at 100% physical fitness would be included, indicating concerns about Neymar's condition. However, he had also left the door open for Neymar's return, stating, "If he can reach the next World Cup at 100 percent, he can be at the World Cup."

Neymar has recently been involved in an intensive recovery process, which included platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to aid in his healing. Since returning to Santos, he has contributed nine goals in 13 matches, providing evidence of his return to form.

While being named to the preliminary roster for Brazil is a significant milestone in Neymar’s comeback effort, it only represents a step towards a final goal. Ancelotti faces the challenging task of narrowing down the preliminary list to a 26-man squad ahead of the tournament. Neymar's next objective will be to prove to Ancelotti that he can help lead Brazil back to glory at the World Cup.