Neymar returns: Brazil name Paris Saint-Germain icon in provisional World Cup squad
Brazil have named their 26-man provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the highly anticipated return of Paris Saint-Germain icon Neymar. The 31-year-old forward has worked his way back to fitness after suffering a torn ACL and meniscus in October 2023, and will be hoping to lead the Seleção to a sixth World Cup title.
The squad, announced by manager Tite's successor Carlo Ancelotti, also features a host of other top talent, including Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Endrick (Real Madrid) and Richarlison. However, Brazil have been dealt a blow with the loss of Rodrygo (torn ACL), Éder Militão (torn hamstring) and Estêvão (hamstring) to injuries. The squad will now undergo a series of training camps and friendlies ahead of the tournament, which gets underway on June 11 in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in history, with France and Spain emerging as co-favourites at +500. Brazil, however, remain one of the most successful teams in the tournament's history, with five World Cup titles to their name. Ancelotti will be hoping to lead the team to a sixth title, and will be counting on Neymar to be at the forefront of their bid for glory.
"Neymar's return is a massive boost for us," Ancelotti said in a statement. "He's worked incredibly hard to get back to fitness, and his experience and quality will be invaluable to us in the tournament. We're excited to have him back on board and we're looking forward to seeing him in action." Neymar himself was thrilled to be included in the squad, saying "I'm so happy to be back with the team. I've worked hard to get back to where I am today, and I'm ready to give everything for Brazil."
The inclusion of Neymar in the squad has sent shockwaves through the football world, with many pundits tipping him to be one of the key players in the tournament. "Neymar is a game-changer," said former Brazil manager Luiz Felipe Scolari. "He's got the ability to win games on his own, and his return to the team will give Brazil a huge boost of confidence. They'll be a major contender for the title, without a doubt."
With the squad now announced, attention will turn to the training camps and friendlies that will take place in the coming weeks. Brazil will face a series of high-profile opponents, including Argentina and Germany, as they look to fine-tune their preparations for the tournament. The 2026 World Cup is just around the corner, and Brazil will be hoping to make a statement from the off. Can they overcome the odds and lift the trophy for the sixth time? Only time will tell.
