The whispers around the Vila Belmiro have finally turned into a roar. After months of speculation, Neymar Jr. is officially back in the conversation for the Seleção. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has included the 34-year-old forward in his 55-man preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup, signaling that the door is wide open for a historic comeback.
It’s been a long, grueling road for the man who once carried the weight of a nation on his shoulders. Neymar hasn’t pulled on the yellow jersey since that dark night in Montevideo back in October 2023, when a ruptured ACL and meniscus against Uruguay seemed to signal the end of an era. But after a year in the wilderness and a move back to his boyhood club, Santos, the magician is showing flashes of the old brilliance.
The Ancelotti Ultimatum
Ancelotti hasn’t been shy about his standards. The Italian tactician previously stated he would only take players who are “100% physically ready” for the rigors of a World Cup hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada. Neymar’s omission from the March friendlies against France and Croatia felt like a finality, but his recent form in the Campeonato Brasileiro has changed the script.
Since returning to action in early 2025, Neymar has been productive, tallying nine goal contributions in 13 matches. Just this past Sunday, he netted his sixth goal of the season in a clinical 2-0 victory over Bragantino. It’s this resurgence that forced Ancelotti’s hand, though the manager remains cautious.
Can He Survive the Final Cut?
While making the 55-man list is a huge emotional boost for fans, the job is only half-done. Ancelotti has until Monday, May 18, to slash that list down to the final 26 players who will head to North America.
Neymar isn’t just fighting his own fitness; he’s fighting a new generation of hungry talent. However, several teammates—including Real Madrid’s stars and Raphinha—have publicly lobbied for his inclusion, citing his veteran leadership and “X-factor” that few in world football can replicate. Even his old friend Lionel Messi recently chimed in, noting that major tournaments are simply better when Neymar is on the pitch.
Brazil is set to kick off their campaign against Morocco on June 13, and the question remains: will the number 10 be leading the line, or watching from the stands? For now, the dream is alive.
