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Despite doubts from many quarters, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer Neymar is set for another shot at glory on football’s grandest stage — the 2026 FIFA World Cup — a moment that has thrilled supporters across the country.

When Carlo Ancelotti finally announced the much-anticipated name, the room erupted in excitement.

Cheers of “Neymar, Neymar” filled the air as Brazil’s head coach revealed his World Cup squad. The 34-year-old, who remains Brazil’s record goalscorer, has earned yet another chance to make his mark at the highest level of the game.

“We’ve been monitoring Neymar throughout the year and noticed that he’s been playing regularly of late, with his fitness improving steadily,” said Ancelotti after confirming the forward’s inclusion. “We consider him a very important player for our squad.”

However, the Italian tactician — who took charge of the Brazilian national team in 2025 — hasn’t always viewed things this way. Earlier this year, Ancelotti left Neymar out of the squad for crucial World Cup warm-up fixtures in March and April. The superstar expressed his frustration at the time, saying, “I’ll talk about it because I can’t just accept it. Of course, I’m upset and disappointed not to have been selected.” Nevertheless, Neymar vowed to stay focused: “The goal remains the same, day by day, training by training, match by match. We’ll achieve our objective. There’s still one last squad announcement for the World Cup, and my dream is still alive. We’ll get there together.”

Neymar’s final shot: Brazil’s icon heads to the World Cup

Nearly three years after his last international appearance — a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023 — Neymar is back in the Brazil squad, although a guaranteed starting spot remains uncertain. “We didn’t include Neymar just to have him as a backup option,” Ancelotti emphasised. “We brought him because we trust in what he can contribute to the team. It doesn’t matter whether he plays one minute, five minutes, 90 minutes, or even stays on the bench — his presence and influence are invaluable.” He also cautioned that “it’s important not to place all expectations on one player alone.”

Following his 2023 transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Al-Hilal and then his return to Santos, many pundits believed Neymar’s best days were behind him. Yet, he battled through injuries and showed resilience to reclaim his place. In Group C, Brazil are set to face Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. For Brazilian fans, who have waited since 2002 for a sixth World Cup title, Neymar’s comeback offers renewed hope and excitement.