The Santos forward, Neymar
Brazil’s football fans have received a major boost as the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, Neymar Jr., prepares for a long-awaited return to the national team during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 34-year-old Santos forward is expected to feature for the Seleção in their final group stage match against Scotland, marking his first appearance for Brazil in nearly three years after a difficult battle with injuries.
Neymar was forced to miss Brazil’s opening matches against Haiti and Morocco due to a calf problem. However, head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the superstar would be integrated back into the squad ahead of the crucial encounter.
Speaking after Brazil’s victory over Haiti, Ancelotti revealed: “Neymar will train individually tomorrow, then Sunday back training with the team and then called up against Scotland.”
The announcement has generated excitement and debate among football supporters. While some critics have questioned whether Neymar’s fitness level is enough for the demands of international football, many believe his experience, creativity, and leadership could provide Brazil with the spark needed in the tournament.
Neymar remains Brazil’s record goal scorer with 79 international goals. His last appearance for the country came in October 2023 against Uruguay, a match that ended in a 2-0 defeat for Brazil and left Neymar with a serious knee injury involving a torn ACL and meniscus.
Following surgery and a long recovery period, Neymar returned to competitive action with Al-Hilal in October 2024, exactly 369 days after suffering the injury. Since then, he has worked to regain his fitness and match sharpness, eventually enjoying an impressive spell with Santos before securing his place in Brazil’s final 26-man World Cup squad.
The question now is whether Neymar can still influence games at the highest level. Football experts remain divided, but some believe his presence alone could make a difference.
Speaking with Daily Post, Eagle Stars FC coach Isma’il Musa backed Neymar’s inclusion in the squad.
“I think Neymar deserves to be part of the Brazil squad. He is one of the best players in the world and Brazil’s all-time leading scorer. Even though he has had injury problems, his leadership, creativity, and winning mentality can help the younger players,” Musa said.
Lagos-based journalist Femi Fabunmi also expressed confidence in Neymar’s ability to contribute if selected.
“Neymar as a footballer has the capacity and experience to feature for Brazil in this mundial. His wealth of experience and football style cannot be over emphasized,” Fabunmi stated.
With Brazil aiming to make a deep run at the World Cup, Neymar’s return could become one of the defining moments of their campaign. His fitness, form, and ability to perform under pressure may determine whether the veteran star writes another memorable chapter in Brazilian football history.
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