Neymar Set to Return to Brazil National Team After 22 Months

Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr., one of the most talented and recognizable footballers in the world, has finally been cleared to return to the Brazil national team after a long hiatus of 22 months. Neymar suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in a World Cup qualifier against Argentina in October 2023, which forced him to step away from international duty. Since that injury, he has been diligently working on his recovery and regaining full fitness. Although he was initially expected to return during the June FIFA window, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti opted not to include him in the squad at that time, stating that Neymar was still not fully ready to compete at the highest level. Now, after nearly two years away from the Selecao, Neymar is set to make his much-anticipated comeback, much to the excitement of fans and teammates alike.

According to Brazilian media outlet O Globo, Carlo Ancelotti has included Neymar, who currently plays for Santos, in his extensive preliminary squad list that will be submitted to FIFA by the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF). The 33-year-old forward has been performing impressively at the club level, showing that he has regained both his physical condition and match sharpness. The official announcement of Brazil’s squad, including Neymar, is expected on August 25, and it will mark the end of a long wait for supporters eager to see their star player don the national colors once again. Neymar’s return is crucial for Brazil as they prepare for the final two rounds of the CONMEBOL qualifiers and build momentum ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup by finishing third in the CONMEBOL points table, accumulating 25 points from 16 matches. Ecuador sits second with the same number of points, while Argentina leads the table with 35 points. The remaining two qualifiers in September will wrap up the South American qualifying campaign, with Brazil set to host Chile in Rio de Janeiro on September 5, followed by an away match against Bolivia on September 10. These matches will give Ancelotti the opportunity to integrate Neymar back into the team and assess his readiness for the challenges ahead.

Under Ancelotti, Brazil has already played two qualifiers in June, securing a 1-0 victory over Paraguay and a goalless draw with Ecuador. These matches demonstrated the reliance on experienced and trusted players in the squad, and Neymar’s inclusion will further strengthen the team’s attacking options. The Italian tactician, known for his strategic planning and careful squad management, will undoubtedly prioritize Neymar’s fitness and impact on the team, ensuring that the forward contributes effectively in the qualifiers and beyond.

Looking beyond the qualifiers, Brazil is focused on preparing for the 2026 World Cup in full swing. The CBF has scheduled six friendly matches before the tournament, including a clash against South Korea in Seoul on October 10 and a match against Japan at Tokyo National Stadium on October 14. Additional friendlies are planned in Africa during FIFA’s November window and in Europe in March next year, though opponents and venues for these games are yet to be finalized. Furthermore, Brazil may organize two more friendlies in June 2026, just before the World Cup, after the official draw. The CBF’s technical committee will determine these matches based on group-stage opponents and logistical arrangements.

Neymar’s return comes at a critical time as Brazil looks to build a balanced and competitive squad capable of challenging for the World Cup title. After years of disappointing finishes since their last triumph in 2002, the Selecao is eager to combine youthful talent with experienced stars like Neymar to make a serious push in 2026. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Neymar reintegrates into the team and whether his presence can elevate Brazil’s attacking play to the next level, reaffirming their status as one of the world’s footballing powerhouses.