Carlo Ancelotti unveiled Brazil’s 26‑man roster for the 2026 World Cup inside Rio’s futuristic Museum of Tomorrow, a stage set with music and former champions. Amid the fanfare, Neymar reappeared on the list, his first call‑up since a knee tear against Uruguay in October 2023. The veteran forward joins a squad that already boasts five‑time champion pedigree prestige.

Ancelotti’s alphabetical call‑outs left the omission of Chelsea’s João Pedro glaring, prompting a uneasy press exchange. The coach defended the decision, noting that Neymar will operate centrally as a striker rather than on the wing, potentially partnering Matheus Cunha or slipping between Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior in a false‑nine role. Igor Thiago and Endrick round out the attacking depth for Brazil.

Midfield depth raises questions, with 34‑year‑old Casemiro likely his last tournament and a thin central pairing against the heat of North America. Defensive options lean on aging full‑backs Danilo and Alex Sandro, while centre‑back Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães sit on opposite Champions League final sides, heightening injury risk. In goal, Alisson’s fitness doubts led Carlo Ancelotti to recall veteran Weverton, underscoring the squad’s balance concerns.