Superstar is there: Neymar nominated for Brazil’s World Cup squad

Ancelotti relies on Neymar’s experience

When Ancelotti mentioned Neymar’s name during the squad presentation at the press conference, there was a huge cheer in the room. “He has improved his fitness, he will be an important player at this World Cup,” said the coach.

The 66-year-old prefers experienced players for some positions in his squad – including Neymar. “He has experience in this type of competition, the affection of our group and he can create a better atmosphere in this team.” As expected, Vinícius Júnior from Real Madrid is also part of the squad. However, his club colleague Rodrygo and the 19-year-old prodigy Estêvão from Chelsea FC will miss the World Cup due to injury.

Neymar’s last of 128 international matches for the record world champion was now two and a half years ago: In October 2023, the injury-prone star suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his knee in the 2-0 defeat against Uruguay in World Cup qualifying and had to be substituted shortly before half-time

Neymar is now playing for his hometown club again

Since then, Neymar has never found his previous form. The Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal SFC let him move to his hometown club FC Santos in Brazil on a free transfer in January 2025. In 2017, Paris Saint-Germain paid a record transfer fee of 222 million euros for Neymar to FC Barcelona.

Brazil will face African champions Morocco in Group C at the start of the World Cup on June 14th at 12:00 a.m. German time. Six days later, the Seleção face outsiders Haiti (2.30 a.m.). Finally, Brazil will face Scotland on June 25th at 00:00.