The Brazil national team has officially confirmed its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the biggest headline being the long-awaited return of Neymar, who is back with the “Seleção” after more than two and a half years away from the national team.

The squad was unveiled by Carlo Ancelotti during a major event held at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro, where more than 700 journalists gathered to hear the Italian coach’s final list for the tournament that will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Neymar’s inclusion came as a surprise because the Santos forward had not been called up since Ancelotti took charge exactly one year ago. The Italian coach had repeatedly stated that he would only select players who were fully fit, something Neymar had struggled to achieve following the injuries that marked the last years of his career.

Neymar Returns to Lead Brazil

Despite the physical concerns, Neymar ultimately earned Ancelotti’s trust and will lead an attacking group filled with talent alongside stars such as Vinícius Junior, Raphinha, Gabriel Martinelli, and Endrick.

The return of the Brazilian icon immediately becomes one of the biggest stories ahead of the World Cup, especially as Brazil looks to capture its sixth world title after winning previous championships in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.

Another surprise inclusion in the squad was young Rayan, the highly rated Bournemouth prospect considered one of the brightest talents in Brazilian football.

Goalkeeper Weverton also returned to the squad after spending recent months outside the team’s regular plans.

Injuries Create Problems for Brazil Before the World Cup

Although the roster includes several major stars, it also features painful absences for the Brazilian national team.

The most significant losses are Rodrygo and Éder Militão from Real Madrid, along with rising star Estêvão, who is linked with Chelsea, all ruled out because of serious injuries.

Those absences will force Carlo Ancelotti to adjust part of the structure he had been building throughout his first year in charge of Brazil.

Brazil will begin its World Cup preparations on May 27 in Teresópolis before playing a farewell friendly against Panama at the Maracanã Stadium ahead of its trip to the United States.

Once in North America, the “Seleção” will face Egypt in its final warm-up match before opening the World Cup on June 13 against Morocco in Group C action.

Brazil will then face Haiti and Scotland during the group stage as it begins its quest for another world title.

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