Perhaps there is hope for Neymar after all. The record goalscorer of Brazil has struggled with injuries in the last three years, but coach Carlo Ancelotti still sees potential in the 34-year-old, as he reportedly called him up for the preliminary squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Neymar hasn’t played for his country since 2023 due to injuries and issues with form. He has played in the World Cup three times with his national team.
According to Brazilian website Globo Esporte., Ancelotti has shortlisted over 50 players for the final squad selection, which not only includes Neymar but also former skipper and veteran Thiago Silva, who recently won the Portuguese top division with Porto this season.
Brazil is drawn in Group C of the FIFA World Cup with Morocco, Haiti and Scotland, and opens its campaign against the Atlas Lions on June 16.
Brazil’s preliminary squad for FIFA World Cup 2026
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Bento, Hugo Souza, John, Carlos Miguel
Defenders: Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Gabriel Magalhães, Bremer, Léo Pereira, Ibáñez, Alexsandro, Fabrício Bruno, Beraldo, Vitor Reis, Murillo, Wesley, Danilo, Paulo Henrique, Vitinho, Alex Sandro, Douglas Santos, Luciano Juba, Caio Henrique, Kaiki, Carlos Augusto
Midfielders: Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Fabinho, Andrey Santos, Danilo, Lucas Paquetá, Gabriel Sara, João Gomes, Andreas Pereira, Joelinton, Gerson, Matheus Pereira
Forwards: Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Luiz Henrique, Gabriel Martinelli, João Pedro, Estêvão, Neymar, Endrick, Rayan, Antony, Igor Thiago, Pedro, Richarlison, Igor Jesus, Kaio Jorge
Coach: Carlo Ancelotti
Published on May 12, 2026