Neymar Jr, the 34-year-old Brazilian forward, experienced an emotional moment when he learned he had been called up to Brazil's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement, made live on television by head coach Carlo Ancelotti, took place in Rio de Janeiro, but Neymar watched from his home surrounded by close friends and family. The scene, captured on video for his YouTube series, shows the veteran striker unable to contain his joy and relief after years of struggle with injuries and doubts about his international future.
The Announcement
As Ancelotti’s list was read alphabetically, tension built in the room. When the announcer reached the letter M and said “Neymar,” the room erupted. Neymar raised both arms, hugged everyone nearby, and immediately called his father to share the moment. “We did it, Dad. We did it,” he repeated emotionally. Earlier, he had admitted to feeling more anxious than in previous selections. “The other times I had butterflies in my stomach,” he said. “But this time it’s different. I’m a bit anxious.”
Background and Comeback
This selection marks Neymar’s return to the Brazilian national team after a long absence. His last appearance for the Seleção was on October 17, 2023, a 2-0 loss to Uruguay in World Cup qualifying, during which he was forced off with an injury in the first half. That setback began a 31-month gap from international duty. During that period, Neymar left European football and returned to his boyhood club Santos in Brazil, where he worked to regain match fitness and form. The path back was not easy—critics questioned his motivation, his age, and whether he could still compete at the highest level. But Neymar persisted, playing weekly in the Brazilian league and gradually rediscovering the flair that made him a global star.
Career Highlights
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior was born on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, Brazil. He rose to fame at Santos, where he won the Copa do Brasil and the Copa Libertadores. In 2013, he moved to Barcelona, forming a legendary trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, and won the treble in 2015. He later set a world record transfer fee when he joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, where he won multiple Ligue 1 titles and led the club to its first Champions League final. For Brazil, he has won two major trophies: the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2016 Olympic gold medal in Rio. He also played in the 2014 World Cup (where Brazil finished fourth), 2018 (quarterfinals), and 2022 (quarterfinals). The 2026 tournament will be his fourth World Cup.
Emotional Response
After the announcement, Neymar spoke about the significance of the call-up. “With everything we’ve been through, with everything they’ve seen me go through, to get to this point and to be able to play in another World Cup is incredible,” he said. “These are tears of pure happiness.” He also thanked the Brazilian fans who supported him during the difficult times. “I want to thank every Brazilian who supported me, who pushed for me, who called for my selection,” he added. “Feeling that love from the fans is really special.”
The Squad and Competition
Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup includes a mix of experienced stars and emerging talent. Alongside Neymar, the attacking line features Vinicius Júnior (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Luiz Henrique (Zenit), and Rayan (Bournemouth). The midfield is anchored by Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Fabinho, and Lucas Paquetá. The defense includes Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Bremer, and veteran full-backs Danilo and Alex Sandro. Goalkeepers are Alisson, Ederson, and Weverton. Ancelotti noted the difficulty of selecting only 26 players given the immense talent pool in Brazil.
World Cup Outlook
Brazil has been drawn into Group C for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Seleção will open against Morocco on June 13, then face Haiti on June 19, and close the group stage against Scotland on June 24. All matches are scheduled to be played in the U.S. Neymar’s experience and creativity will be key assets as Brazil seeks its sixth World Cup title and first since 2002. The squad is considered one of the strongest in the tournament, and Neymar has promised fans that the team will give everything to bring the trophy home.
This moment of selection, captured in raw emotion, underscores Neymar’s resilience and enduring love for the game. After more than two years away from the yellow jersey, he is back on the world’s biggest stage.
Source:Red Bull News