This is a bombshell! Excluded from the Seleção since 2023, Neymar has been recalled by Carlo Ancelotti and will return to the World Cup. The former PSG star, who plays for Santos, is indeed among the 26 players selected. The 34-year-old striker rejoins the Seleção for what looks like his last major international campaign. His return follows many months marked by injuries and doubts about his fitness.
Neymar, the return that changes everything
Neymar's return was one of the main topics surrounding this squad selection. At 34, the former PSG player has seen a return to regular playing time with Santos in recent weeks. He has featured in 10 of his club's last 13 matches, a factor that influenced the Brazilian national team coach's decision.
Endrick is also part of the squad. The 19-year-old striker, on loan to Lyon from Real Madrid since January, is being rewarded after a successful second half of the season with OL. Having scored 9 goals in all competitions, he will be participating in his first World Cup.
In defense, Marquinhos is present and accounted for. He is expected to play a key role in the center, as Thiago Silva was not selected. Éder Militão's withdrawal had reignited some discussions about the defensive lineup, but Ancelotti ultimately opted to rely on other players, notably Gabriel Magalhães.
Before the start of the World Cup, Brazil will play two friendly matches: against Panama on May 31, and then against Egypt on June 7. The Seleção will then begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 14 at MetLife Stadium in New York.
The list of 26 Brazilians selected
Guardians: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton.
Defenders: Alex Sandro, Bremer, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Léo Pereira, Ibañez, Wesley.
Environments : Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Fabinho, Danilo, Lucas Paqueta.
Attackers: Vinicius Junior, Neymar, Endrick, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Luiz Henrique, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Rayan.
