Brazil's football team coach Carlo Ancelotti has included 34-year-old forward Neymar in the 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer. He has scored 79 goals in 128 matches for his country.
Neymar had not played for the national team since 2023. He faced challenges with injuries. His selection shows he is now in good physical condition. Coach Ancelotti stated this during the squad announcement in Rio de Janeiro. Fans cheered when Neymar's name was read out. This marks Neymar's fourth World Cup appearance. He previously played in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments.
The World Cup squad also features other notable players. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker makes the team. Manchester United's Casemiro and Matheus Cunha are included. Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes is also in the squad. Arsenal defender Gabriel is selected. Brentford striker Igor Thiago and Bournemouth forward Rayan will also represent Brazil. However, Chelsea's Joao Pedro was left out. He is Chelsea's top scorer this season with 15 goals.
Coach Ancelotti, appointed by Brazil last year, spent months analysing Neymar's fitness. He noted Neymar's recent consistent play. "We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition," Ancelotti said. Brazil, a five-time World Cup winner, will start their campaign on June 13 against Morocco. They will then play Haiti on June 20. Their final group match is against Scotland four days later. The 2026 World Cup, which features 48 teams, begins on June 11. It is being held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The inclusion of star players like Neymar in major tournaments often generates excitement. It can also lead to increased economic activity related to sports. For example, merchandise sales and fan engagement can boost economies. While this specific event concerns Brazilian national sports, similar dynamics are observed globally. Such events can influence tourism and related industries. Details on the financial impact of the World Cup on host nations are often closely watched by economists. Discussions around player contracts and endorsements also form part of the broader financial narrative surrounding top athletes.