Brazil confirmed Carlo Ancelotti as head coach for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and included Neymar in its 26-man squad, ending weeks of speculation over the 34-year-old forward’s fitness and international future.
Neymar was visibly emotional after learning of his selection, celebrating with family and telling his father by phone that they had achieved their goal. He later called teammate Raphinha to express confidence about the tournament. The Santos star is preparing for his fourth World Cup appearance after injury-disrupted seasons in Saudi Arabia and upon his return to Brazil.
Ancelotti, who joined Brazil after leaving Real Madrid, has built a squad blending experienced figures with emerging talent including Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo. The Selecao will compete in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland at the expanded 48-team tournament across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Brazil has won the World Cup a record five times and enters the tournament seeking its first title since 2002. Ancelotti is the first foreign-born coach to lead the national team at a World Cup since Otto Glória in 1966.
Brazil’s squad announcement came during the same week that European powers including Germany and France finalized their rosters. Neymar’s inclusion followed months of rehabilitation after he returned to Santos from the Saudi Pro League to prepare for the tournament.
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Sources:
https://www.outlookindia.com/sports