Neymar has been named in Brazil's 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup, head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Monday, 19 May in Rio de Janeiro, ending the forward's international exile of more than two and a half years. The Santos star's inclusion closes a selection debate that had consumed Brazilian football media for weeks.

The Return and What Ancelotti Said

Neymar was among the last names announced, heightening the drama around his recall. Ancelotti was measured in managing expectations at the press conference. 'We chose Neymar not because we think he will be a good backup, but because he can add to the team with his qualities,' the Italian coach said. 'Whether he plays one minute or 90 minutes... I think we have to focus on the quality of the minutes collectively on the pitch. He will play if he deserves to play. Training will decide that. I think it is important not to place all the expectations on one player.'

Ancelotti also acknowledged directly that the selection was not based on recent form. 'The evaluation throughout the year was only about the physical aspect,' he said, adding that Neymar's experience in major tournaments and his standing within the squad were key factors. 'Experience in this type of competition and the affection he has within the group can help create the best atmosphere.'

Neymar's Record and Injury History

The 34-year-old is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 international appearances. His last outing for the Selecao came in October 2023, when he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Since returning to boyhood club Santos in January 2024, he has managed only 17 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions, with fitness remaining a persistent concern.

The Selection Debate and Notable Omissions

The composition of Brazil's final squad had been a subject of intense national discussion, with current players, former internationals, and public figures all weighing in. Ancelotti noted the scrutiny had followed him even mid-flight. 'I received a lot of advice, a lot. Journalists, commentators, influencers, singers, players, former players, everywhere in the world, because I flew to Europe and the pilot asked me: who are you going to call up?' he said.

Several players were considered unfortunate to miss out, including Chelsea duo Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos, and veteran defender Thiago Silva of Porto. Forwards Rodrygo and Estevao were ruled out due to injuries. Surprise inclusions were Gremio goalkeeper Weverton and Bournemouth winger Rayan.

Brazil's World Cup Campaign

Brazil open their campaign against Morocco in New Jersey on 13 June, before facing Haiti and Scotland in Group C. Ancelotti, who took charge in May 2024 and last week signed a contract extension running through the 2030 World Cup, will be hoping Neymar's fitness holds through the tournament.

Full Brazil Squad

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Gremio). Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Pereira (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Ibanez (Al-Ahli), Wesley (Roma), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Douglas Santos (Zenit St. Petersburg). Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo Santos (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al-Ittihad), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo). Forwards: Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Luiz Henrique (Zenit St. Petersburg), Neymar (Santos), Rayan (Bournemouth).

Whether Neymar can sustain fitness through a gruelling tournament and whether Ancelotti's trust in experience over form proves justified will be one of the defining storylines of Brazil's World Cup.