Despite months of uncertainty over his fitness, Neymar has been named to Brazil's final 26-man World Cup squad by coach Carlo Ancelotti.
According to ESPN, Neymar secured his place on the final roster despite injury struggles that had clouded his availability throughout the buildup to the tournament. In footage shared online, Neymar watched the news with family and friends, and wept with joy when he found out that he made the team.
The confirmation ends what had been one of the most debated roster questions heading into the 2026 tournament. On May 11, Fabrizio Romano posted on X that "Neymar Jr, confirmed as part of Brazil preliminary World Cup squad among 55 players pre-called up by Carlo Ancelotti. Decision on bringing Ney to World Cup or not will only be made next week."
Brazil enters the 2026 World Cup chasing a record sixth title, and Neymar, widely regarded as one of the country's most iconic footballers, will be part of that pursuit. The preliminary 55-man pool was updated on May 14, with the final 26-man group now confirmed.
The tournament begins with Brazil among the most closely watched sides in the field, and Ancelotti's call to include Neymar signals confidence that the forward can contribute when it matters most.
Brazil enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup in a fascinating Group C alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. Brazil is still viewed as one of the tournament favorites, especially with Neymar returning to the squad, but the group presents a mix of styles and challenges.
Morocco arrives after its historic 2022 World Cup semifinal run, Scotland brings physicality and organization, while Haiti enters as an underdog capable of playing freely with little pressure. Brazil opens the tournament against Morocco in what many already see as one of the standout group-stage matchups of the competition.
