Carlo Ancelotti has made his decision. This Monday, less than a month before the 2026 World Cup (June 11 – July 19), the coach of Brazil officially announced his list of players who will go in search of a sixth star, the first since 2002. During a grand ceremony where the Brazilian Confederation planned “the largest call-up of all time”, with a concert featuring singers Ludmilla, Joao Gomes, Samuel Rosa, and Veigh, the biggest question was about Neymar’s situation.
After weeks of uncertainty, Carlo Ancelotti has ultimately chosen to include the Santos star, despite his recurring physical problems and limited playing time in recent months. At 34 years old, the former FC Barcelona and PSG player will participate in his fourth World Cup, never having reached the final. It remains to be seen what role the top scorer in the history of the Seleção will play in this World Cup in America. His presence is expected to generate extra excitement surrounding the team in the yellow jersey.
“We have seen Neymar’s form, he has played a lot, and he has improved his physical condition,” explained the Italian coach of the Seleção to justify his decision. “He is an important player and will be crucial during the World Cup. He will have the opportunity to play or be on the bench. He will have the same status and responsibilities as the others.”
In attack, Endrick is included in Ancelotti’s list, as the coach recently extended his contract with the Seleção until 2030. Loaned by Real Madrid to OL over the past six months, the 19-year-old player concluded his Lyon adventure with 8 goals and 8 decisive assists in 21 matches (across all competitions). While Rodrygo is unavailable due to a knee injury, Brazil can also rely on players like Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Raphinha (FC Barcelona), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), and Matheus Cunha (Manchester United).
Key players such as Ederson and Alisson in goal, captain Marquinhos in defense, and Casemiro in midfield are naturally part of the team, unlike Thiago Silva (41 years old), despite a convincing season with FC Porto.
Brazil will start their World Cup campaign against Morocco (June 14, midnight), before facing Haiti (June 20, 2:30 am) and Scotland (June 25, midnight) in Group C. Prior to that, the yellow selection will play two final preparation matches, against Panama on May 31 in Rio and against Egypt on June 6 in Cleveland (United States).
Since Ancelotti took charge, Brazil has played ten matches, with a record of five wins, three draws, and two losses, the most recent being against France (2-1) in March.
The list of 26 Brazilians for the 2026 World Cup:
GOALKEEPERS – Alisson – Ederson – Weverton
DEFENDERS – Alex Sandro – Bremer – Danilo – Douglas Santos – Gabriel – Ibanez – Léo Pereira – Marquinhos – Wesley
MIDFIELDERS – Bruno Guimaraes – Casemiro – Danilo Santos – Fabinho – Lucas Paqueta
FORWARDS – Endrick – Martinelli – Igor Thiago – Luiz Henrique – Cunha – Neymar – Raphinha – Rayan – Vinicius Jr
Original article published on RMC Sport.
