Was Neymar called up by Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil FIFA World Cup 2026 squad?
(Courtesy :Â Getty Images)
The Selecao have announced their final squad for the World Cup.
Neymar, a forward from Brazil, is part of head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man World Cup roster after missing plenty of call-ups in the previous competitions and friendly games.
The 34-year-old, who currently plays for Santos in Brazil, is the nation’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 games. However, due to his injury problems, he hasn’t played for the Selecao since 2023.
Having played for Brazil in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups, his inclusion in the squad means he will participate in his fourth World Cup.
At a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti unveiled his team. Supporters applauded as Neymar’s name was revealed.
Carlo Ancelotti reveals why he called up Neymar to the squad
Brazil, which appointed Ancelotti, 66, last year, said:
“We spent the entire year analysing Neymar. We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition.
“He has experience in this kind of competition, the love of our group; he can create a better environment in this group. We chose Neymar not because we think he’ll be a good substitute. We chose Neymar because we believe he can help the team, whether it’s for one minute, five minutes, 90 minutes or even taking a penalty.”
The 34-year-old said he “cried for several hours” when he learned he was selected for Brazil’s World Cup team. Neymar shared a video of his reaction upon learning he was included on social media.
He was spotted embracing Ricardo Rosa, his fitness instructor, and Rafael Martini, his physiotherapist. Both men were crucial to his recuperation.
His call-up was applauded by Brazilian supporters. The seasoned forward thanked them in his address. Before heading to the US on May 31, Brazil play a friendly match against Panama at the MaracanĂŁ Stadium.
When was the last time Neymar played for Brazil?
In 2023.
Is he included in the Selecao squad?
Yes.
Which group are Brazil in?
They are in group C.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.
After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.