Neymar returns to Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup: When did he last play for the national team?

Neymar has remained at the center of controversy, as his injuries and inconsistent performances fueled major debate. However, the Brazilian star has managed to recover both his prominence and physical consistency at Santos FC. With this in mind, the 34-year-old star has now been included by head coach Carlo Ancelotti in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. As a result, he could soon end a lengthy drought since his last appearance for the national team.

As the cornerstone of Brazil for many years, Neymar used to be the undisputed leader of the dressing room. However, he played his last match for the Canarinha on October 18, 2023, during the 2-0 defeat against Uruguay, meaning 943 days will have passed since that appearance. The 34-year-old star could now make his long-awaited return on May 31, 2026 against Panama in the friendly clash before the 2026 World Cup.

In his return with national team, the 34-year-old star could end a 982-day drought since his last goal for Brazil, with his brace against Bolivia on September 9 of 2023. However, Neymar Jr. is no longer the explosive winger who constantly dominated defenders in isolation, but rather a brilliant attacking midfielder. Because of this, he could return by contributing more as a creator and playmaker.

Neymar Jr. may have a secondary role with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup

Along his process with Brazil, Carlo Ancelotti has decided to rely on Matheus Cunha as his starting attacking midfielder. Shining at Manchester United, he offers major changes of pace while also contributing heavily in the scoring phase. In addition, Lucas Paquetá remains a regular presence with the national team, standing out because of his dribbling and creative ability. With this in mind, Neymar appears set to hold a secondary role during the 2026 World Cup.

Despite his potential secondary role, Neymar could still offer an ideal alternative for Carlo Ancelotti. Neither Matheus Cunha nor Lucas Paquetá have consistently managed to provide a major creative boost for Brazil, something the 34-year-old star is still capable of delivering. Thanks to his elite vision and technical quality, he could elevate the scoring output of Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha by entering as an impact substitute.

Neymar’s comeback closes the door on the 2026 World Cup for Joao Pedro

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Carlo Ancelotti has decided to rely on Igor Thiago and Endrick as his primary striker options for Brazil. While neither player had been a regular starter in recent matches, both impressed in the Premier League and Ligue 1, earning their places in the squad. While João Pedro has been shining at Chelsea FC, the return of Neymar reportedly cost him his place in the national team, as he failed to fully impress during the friendlies games.