Neymar Jr. is once again close to the Brazilian national team. After months of uncertainty over whether Carlo Ancelotti, the Canarinha’s head coach, would include him in the World Cup squad, the number 10’s participation is becoming a reality. Despite injuries and physical concerns that have clouded his presence, the Santos forward has been named in Ancelotti’s preliminary list of 55 players eligible for the upcoming World Cup. This marks the first major step for Neymar to compete in what will likely be the last World Cup of his career.
The final squad will be announced on Monday, May 18, when Ancelotti will make his final decision on Neymar’s inclusion. The Brazilian star had been left out of previous lists due to not being in top shape, something Carletto has stressed since taking charge: only players ready to compete at the highest level will be selected.
However, the circumstances surrounding Neymar have changed significantly in recent weeks. Since the start of the new season with Santos, the former Barcelona, PSG, and Al Hilal star has regained his influence and sharpness. Beyond the numbers—six goals and three assists in 13 matches—the forward feels important on the pitch again. He looks much more agile, decisive, and precise in front of goal. Most importantly, he is stringing together consistent minutes, something he hasn’t done in a long time.
Neymar’s potential return would also have a strong emotional impact on the Brazilian squad. Teammates like Raphinha have publicly expressed their desire to share a locker room with him again, recognizing what he means to the group both on and off the field. Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer and a major icon for an entire generation.
His last appearance for the national team came on October 18, 2023, against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier that turned into a nightmare. That night, he suffered a severe cruciate ligament injury that kept him sidelined for nearly a year and even raised fears about the end of his career.
Now, with Ancelotti at the helm and after months of recovery, Neymar is back on the radar to lead a nation dreaming of a sixth World Cup star. Being on the preliminary list does not guarantee his place in the final squad, but it brings him closer to being called up as one of the most decisive and high-profile footballers of the century. The preliminary list also notable omissions, though expected: Rodrygo Goes and Éder Militão, both seriously injured, will not be part of the World Cup.
