News Focus
- Neymar Junior returns to the Selecao after last playing in October 2023.
- Carlo Ancelotti says the veteran can boost team spirit but is not guaranteed to start.
- Only three La Liga stars make the squad: Vinicius Junior, Endrick Felipe, and Raphinha.
- Real Madrid duo Rodrygo Goes and Eder Militao miss the tournament through injury.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has named veteran forward Neymar Junior in his World Cup squad. The decision comes as a surprise to many fans.
The 34-year-old has not worn the yellow shirt of Brazil for nearly three years. He has spent much of that time recovering from fitness problems. Ancelotti took over as boss last summer but had ignored the former Barcelona star until now.
The Italian coach told reporters that Neymar brings valuable experience to the group. He wants the player to help create a positive mood inside the camp. However, Ancelotti stressed that reputation alone will not win a place in the starting eleven.
“I do not want stars. I want players who fight for the team,” Ancelotti explained to Marca. He suggested Neymar could play in a central role if he proves his fitness during training.
Just three footballers from the Spanish top flight have received the call. Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior is likely to start on the left flank. His club teammate Endrick Felipe, who is currently on loan at Olympique Lyon in France, also makes the cut. Barcelona skipper Raphinha will provide competition for Neymar in attack.
Several big names are missing from the final list. Real Madrid pair Rodrygo Goes and Eder Militao are both injured. Chelsea forward Joao Pedro is also unavailable for medical reasons. Estevao, a target for Barcelona, failed to convince Ancelotti during the selection process. Antony of Real Betis has also been left out despite previous appearances for the national side.
The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed the 26-man squad on social media. They expressed confidence that the group can capture a sixth World Cup title for the nation.