Neymar Set for Brazil's 2026 World Cup Squad as Coach Carlo Ancelotti Finalizes Official Roster

Brazilian superstar Neymar is expected to be part of the country's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad after coach Carlo Ancelotti included him in the official roster, a major development for a player whose international future had been clouded by injuries and long absences from the national team. The news marks a significant moment for Brazil as it begins to lock in its player squad for the tournament, with Neymar once again positioned as a central figure in the team's plans.

According to recent reports, Neymar had already been included in Brazil's preliminary 55-man list, and his return gained momentum after a strong stretch with Santos and renewed confidence from the coaching staff. His last appearance for Brazil came on October 18, 2023, when he suffered a serious knee injury in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, sidelining him for an extended period.

The latest reporting suggests that Ancelotti's decision may also have been influenced by the absence of other attacking options through injury, including Rodrygo and Estêvão, which opened the door further for Neymar's inclusion. At Santos, Neymar has continued to show flashes of his quality, recording goals and assists that have kept him in the conversation for a final tournament spot.

Brazil Ranks 6th In Fifa's Latest Men's World Ranking

Brazil is currently ranked 6th in the FIFA global rankings -- France - 1st, Spain - 2nd, Argentina - 3rd, England - 4th, Portugal - 5th -- reflecting a team that remains among the world's elite while still searching for greater consistency ahead of the World Cup. With Neymar back in the spotlight and Ancelotti finalizing his squad, expectations are rising that Brazil could enter the tournament with one of the most dangerous attacking groups in the competition.

Official Roster/Player List Below

With the final 26-man list published today, the inclusion of Neymar has already become one of the biggest storylines surrounding Brazil's World Cup buildup. For supporters, the possibility of seeing Neymar on football's biggest stage again adds a layer of drama and anticipation to Brazil's World Cup campaign.

Goalies

• Alisson
• Ederson
• Weverton

Defense

• Alex Sandro
• Bremer
• Danilo
• D. Santos
• Magalhães
• Ibañez
• Leo Pereira
• Marquinhos
• Wesley

Midfield

• Bruno Guimarães
• Casemiro
• Danilo
• Fabinho
• Paquetá

Strikers

• Endrick
• Martinelli
• Igor Thiago
• Luiz Henrique
• Matheus Cunha
• Neymar Jr.
• Vinicius Jr.
• Raphinha
• Rayan