People celebrated as Neymar appeared on a large screen during the Brazil squad announcement for the World Cup 2026 at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro on 18/5. Photo: Globo

During the squad announcement press conference at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro on 18/5, coach Ancelotti stated that Neymar was called up not as a reserve, but because his class and experience could still make a difference. "We didn't select Neymar thinking he would be a good backup option, but because he can contribute quality to the national team. Neymar can play for one minute, five minutes, or the entire match. What's important is the quality in every minute he's on the field," the Italian coach said.

The 66-year-old coach emphasized that Neymar's playing position would depend on his performance in training. "I want to be clear and direct: Neymar will play if he deserves to. Training sessions will decide that. I don't want all expectations to be placed on one player," he stated.

Minutes before Ancelotti announced Brazil's World Cup squad, Neymar drew attention by updating his Instagram bio. The 34-year-old forward, who previously only listed Santos as his club, added "Brazil national team," a move seen as a signal that he had prior knowledge of his call-up.

Brazilian fans celebrated Neymar's inclusion in the World Cup 2026 squad in Rio de Janeiro. Photo: AP

Neymar holds the record for scoring 79 goals for Brazil, two more than "King of Football" Pele's previous milestone. He helped the national team reach the semifinals of the 2014 World Cup and the quarterfinals of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. The last time Neymar played for Brazil was in a 0-2 loss to Uruguay on 17/10/2023, when he suffered a torn knee ligament and was sidelined for nearly one year.

Returning to Santos at the start of 2025, Neymar underwent another surgery on his left meniscus in December last year. Although he hasn't suffered any serious injuries in 2026, he follows a load management regimen to prevent muscle overload. The 34-year-old forward also recently underwent a medical check-up after experiencing pain in his right calf during the match against Coritiba on 16/5.

Ancelotti stated that Neymar's physical condition has improved due to continuous play recently. "He can reach a better state before the World Cup opener. Neymar's experience and influence will also contribute to the team's atmosphere," he said.

Puma posted a video announcing Neymar's call-up for the World Cup 2026.

The Italian coach also admitted regret at having to drop several players who had been with the Brazil squad during the World Cup preparation phase, including Bento, Hugo Souza, Andrey Santos, and Joao Pedro. Rodrygo and Estevao Willian were absent due to injuries. Regarding Pedro, Ancelotti acknowledged that the Chelsea forward had an impressive season in Europe, but the Brazil squad had to prioritize other options.

Brazil will gather starting 27/5 at their Granja Comary headquarters, with the exception of players participating in the Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal. Ancelotti's squad will play friendly matches against Panama on 31/5 at the Maracana stadium and against Egypt on 6/6 in Cleveland before the World Cup 2026, where they are in Group C with Scotland, Haiti, and Morocco.

When asked if Brazil could reach the final, Ancelotti replied: "I am not a magician, but someone who has been involved in football for the past 40 years. I believe this team is capable of competing with the strongest teams in the world. Brazil can reach the final and win the World Cup."

Compiled by Hong Duy