Neymar Set to Return to Brazil National Team After 22 Months

Neymar Jr. has been cleared to return to the Brazil national team after a 22-month absence caused by a serious ACL injury sustained in a World Cup qualifier against Argentina in October 2023. Despite initial hopes for a June comeback, coach Carlo Ancelotti deemed him not fully ready then. Now, after diligent recovery and impressive club form with Santos, his return is confirmed.

Brazilian media reports that Ancelotti has included Neymar in the extensive preliminary squad list to be submitted to FIFA by the CBF. The official squad announcement, expected on August 25, will confirm his much-anticipated return, crucial as Brazil prepares for its final two CONMEBOL qualifiers and builds towards the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, finishing third in the CONMEBOL table with 25 points from 16 matches (behind Ecuador also on 25 points and leaders Argentina on 35). The team will complete its qualifying campaign with a home match against Chile in Rio de Janeiro on September 5, followed by an away game against Bolivia on September 10, providing opportunities to reintegrate Neymar.

Under Ancelotti, Brazil played two qualifiers in June, beating Paraguay 1-0 and drawing 0-0 with Ecuador, demonstrating reliance on experienced players. Neymar's return is expected to strengthen the team's attacking options, with Ancelotti prioritizing his fitness and impact.

Beyond the qualifiers, Brazil is actively preparing for the 2026 World Cup. The CBF has scheduled six friendly matches: against South Korea in Seoul on October 10, Japan in Tokyo on October 14, matches in Africa during November's FIFA window, matches in Europe in March 2025, and potentially two more friendlies in June 2026 after the World Cup draw. These opponents and venues beyond October are yet to be finalized, with the technical committee basing decisions on group-stage opponents and logistics.

Neymar's return is seen as critical for Brazil's World Cup ambitions, aiming to combine youthful talent with experienced stars like him to challenge for the title after years of disappointment since their 2002 win. His reintegration and ability to elevate Brazil's attacking play will be closely watched.