Brazil's Final 26-Man Squad Announced: Neymar Returns After 2.5 Years as Ancelotti Reveals World Cup Roster
Carlo Ancelotti has named Brazil's final 26-man World Cup squad. Neymar returns after a 2.5-year absence, while Rodrygo, Estevao, and Eder Militao miss out through injury. Full squad analysis and reaction.
Carlo Ancelotti ended weeks of speculation by unveiling Brazil's final 26-man World Cup squad on May 18 at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro. The biggest headline: **Neymar is back**.
Neymar's Return — 2.5 Years in the Making
The 34-year-old Santos forward has not represented Brazil since October 2023. Injuries, a high-profile move back to Brazil from Al Hilal, and questions about motivation created doubt about whether he would ever wear the Seleção shirt again. But Ancelotti — who coached Neymar briefly at PSG and knows exactly what the player can offer — has gambled on the Brazilian icon's quality and experience. This will be Neymar's **4th World Cup** (2014, 2018, 2022, 2026). He needs just 3 goals to surpass Pelé as Brazil's all-time leading scorer.
The Injury Absences
Brazil's squad announcement was overshadowed by three significant injury-enforced absences. **Rodrygo** (Real Madrid), who was expected to be a key attacking option, misses out through injury. **Estevao Willian** (Chelsea), the 19-year-old sensation hailed as "the next Neymar," was heartbreakingly ruled out with a muscle injury. **Eder Militao** (Real Madrid) also misses the tournament through injury, depleting Ancelotti's defensive options.
The Complete Squad
Key players called up include: Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City), Marquinhos (PSG), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United), and Casemiro (Manchester United). Young star Endrick (Real Madrid, 19) is expected to make the final traveling party.
Brazil open their Group C campaign against Morocco on June 13 at MetLife Stadium.