The news that brought tears to Neymar’s eyes: On Monday, Carlo Ancelotti included the Brazilian superstar in his preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending months of uncertainty over his international future. Neymar, visibly overcome with emotion, could not hide his joy, stating it felt "incredible" after everything he had been through. The moment was captured in a heartfelt video message that quickly spread across social media.
For a player once hailed as the heir to Pelé's throne, the past few years have been defined by a brutal series of injuries. From a fractured metatarsal in 2018 to a devastating anterior cruciate ligament tear in 2023, Neymar has faced repeated setbacks that threatened to derail his career. Each comeback was met with hope, only for another injury to sideline him, raising serious doubts about his ability to compete at the highest level.
Ancelotti’s decision to call him up is a powerful vote of confidence. The Italian coach, who took over the Seleção in 2024, has always admired Neymar’s unique talent. Despite the forward’s limited playing time in recent seasons due to his rehabilitation, Ancelotti has repeatedly stressed that a fit Neymar is indispensable. By naming him for the tournament, the coach is betting on Neymar’s big-match experience and creativity to unlock defenses.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents a golden opportunity for Brazil to end their 24-year wait for a sixth title. With a squad blending youth and experience, Ancelotti sees Neymar as a pivotal piece. His ability to produce magic in tight spaces could be the difference in knockout matches, where the Seleção have often stumbled since 2002.
Neymar’s international journey has been one of brilliance and heartbreak. He leads Brazil in assists and is second only to Pelé in goals, yet his World Cup campaigns have often ended in pain: the 2014 back injury, the 2018 quarterfinal exit against Belgium, and the 2022 penalty shootout loss to Croatia. At 34 in 2026, this could be his last chance to cement his legacy by lifting the trophy he covets most.
The reaction to his selection has been overwhelmingly positive. Teammates including Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo expressed their excitement, while fans flooded social media with messages of support. Many recalled Neymar’s tears during previous setbacks and saw this call-up as a reward for his unwavering determination. The narrative of resilience resonates deeply in a football world that often writes off injured superstars too quickly.
From a tactical standpoint, Neymar’s presence adds a layer of unpredictability to Brazil’s attack. Ancelotti is expected to deploy him in a free role behind the strikers, where he can drift wide, pick passes, and take on defenders. His understanding with young stars like Endrick and the experienced Vini Jr. could forge a devastating offensive unit. However, managing his minutes and fitness throughout the grueling tournament will be critical.
For Neymar, this selection is more than just a squad place—it is validation. Having endured multiple surgeries, grueling rehabilitation sessions, and the mental toll of repeated comebacks, he spoke directly to those who never lost faith. "Après tout ce qu’ils m’ont vu endurer, c’est incroyable," he said, his voice breaking. The raw emotion reminded everyone of the human behind the headlines.
The path to the World Cup will not be easy. Neymar will need to prove his fitness in pre-tournament friendlies and perhaps manage a reduced role in the group stage to peak when it matters most. Brazil’s medical staff is already crafting a personalized plan to keep him fresh, aware that his health could determine the team’s ceiling. The entire nation will be holding its breath.
This selection also carries symbolic weight for Brazilian football. It signals that after years of relying on Neymar alone, the team can now support him with a deeper, more balanced squad. The pressure is no longer solely on his shoulders, but his icon status ensures that his every move will be scrutinized. For now, though, the focus is on gratitude and renewed hope.
As Neymar prepares to join his teammates, the football world watches with a mix of anticipation and empathy. His story is one of prodigious talent battling physical fragility, and this chapter could be its most inspiring. Whether he can finally add the World Cup to his glittering trophy cabinet remains to be seen, but his inclusion alone is a triumph of spirit.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.