Full Breakdown
Neymar Returns to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Squad Amid Fitness Scrutiny
5/21/2026, 12:12:35 PM
Neymar Named in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Squad
On May 21 2024 Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti announced a 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup that includes veteran forward Neymar, 34, Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals. Neymar posted an emotional video on May 19, hugging physiotherapist Rafael Martini and fitness coach Ricardo Rosa, saying he “cried for several hours.” Brazil will play Panama on May 31, Egypt on June 6, and open the tournament against Morocco on June 13 in Group C, which also contains Haiti and Scotland.
Recent Injuries and Absence
Neymar missed national duty after tearing his left-knee ACL in October 2023. In early May 2024 Santos medical director Rodrigo Zogaib reported a right-calf edema (2 mm swelling) he classified as minor and expected to resolve by May 27, allowing Neymar to join Brazil’s pre-World Cup camp.
Official Statements & Responses
Ancelotti said the call-up was based on recent fitness assessments, noting Neymar “has the same role and responsibilities as everyone else, but he is an experienced player” and will be treated “like any other member.” Santos medical staff indicated the calf edema would not keep Neymar from joining the camp on May 27. Neymar expressed gratitude to staff and fans and described the selection as “hard to explain with words” and emotionally taxing.
Criticism & Opposition
Journalists and some fans questioned the decision, citing Neymar’s limited recent form and the risk of a late injury. Lilian Santos observed he “has not performed as well as we expected,” while Luana Almeida stressed he is “not at 100 percent physically,” implying his role may be primarily motivational.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the calf condition: one describes “moderate swelling,” another specifies a “2-millimeter edema.” Both agree the injury is minor, yet no definitive clearance date is provided, leaving Neymar’s availability for the Panama friendly uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
“I admit that I cried for several hours because it was by no means easy to arrive at this point.” — Neymar, forward
“But after hearing my name on the list, all the sacrifices and all the effort was worth it.” — Neymar, forward
“We evaluated Neymar throughout the year and noticed that, recently, he has been playing consistently and has improved his physical condition,” — Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil head coach
“He's not at 100 percent physically, but he's the only genius in the squad and couldn't be left out,” — Luana Almeida, administrative assistant
What’s Next
Brazil will play Panama on May 31 and Egypt on June 6 before the World Cup opener on June 13. The staff will monitor Neymar’s recovery and may use FIFA’s replacement rule if he cannot join the tournament.
