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Ancelotti Picks Recovered Neymar for Brazil's 2026 World Cup

5/19/2026

Summary

Neymar Selected

Brazil announced on May 18 2026 that coach Carlo Ancelotti selected 34-year-old forward Neymar for the 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Neymar, who tore his left ACL in October 2023, logged eight Santos games this year with four goals and two assists, showing improved fitness.
Ancelotti said he selected Neymar after year-long evaluation, citing recent consistency and physical condition rather than sentiment.

Summary

Neymar Warm-up

Fans filled Rio’s Museum of Tomorrow, chanting “Olé, Olé, Olé, Ola, Neymar!” and waving Neymar signs.
The Brazilian federation scheduled a warm-up match against Panama at the Maracanã for June 1, 2026, before the World Cup opener.
Assistant Rodrigo Caetano maintained daily contact with Santos’ medical staff to confirm Neymar’s fitness.
Joao Pedro, who posted 23 goals and six assists this season, was omitted from the squad, prompting former-player criticism.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 Brazil captured its fifth World Cup, with Ronaldo scoring twice in the Yokohama final and winning the Golden Shoe with eight goals. That comeback spirit resurfaces for the 2026 tournament as Neymar earns a place on Brazil’s 26-man squad. The selection revives Brazil’s tradition of relying on star forwards to lead tournament hopes.

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Neymar Selected

Brazil announced on May 18 2026 that coach Carlo Ancelotti selected 34-year-old forward Neymar for the 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Neymar, who tore his left ACL in October 2023, logged eight Santos games this year with four goals and two assists, showing improved fitness.
Ancelotti said he selected Neymar after year-long evaluation, citing recent consistency and physical condition rather than sentiment.

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