Sports

Neymar's First Move After Carlo Ancelotti's Major Announcement Draws Attention

By Antonio G Losada Athlon Sports

Updated May 19, 2026 10:47 AM

Neymar has been at the center of attention before and after Carlo Ancelotti's 2026 World Cup squad announcement for the Brazil national football team.

The 34-year-old forward spent the past few weeks navigating the uncertainty of whether or not he'd make the final cut, but ultimately, Neymar was officially included in Brazil's 26-man roster.

With that, Neymar will attend his fourth World Cup after previously playing for Brazil in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions of the biggest soccer tournament.

Ancelotti explained the decision to include Neymar among his 26 players after unveiling the squad in Rio de Janeiro.

Neymar Jr. of Brazil runs with the ball. Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images Photo by Pedro Vilela/Getty Images

"He has improved his fitness," Ancelotti said. "He will be an important player in this World Cup. He has experience in this kind of competition, the love of our group; he can create a better environment in this group. We chose Neymar not because we think he'll be a good substitute. We chose Neymar because we believe he can help the team, whether it's for one minute, five minutes, 90 minutes or even taking a penalty."

Shortly before the official announcement, Neymar made a noticeable change on social media.

His Instagram bio was updated, reading "@santosfc & Brazil " and referencing both his club, Santos, and Brazil, in celebration of his inclusion in the national team ahead of the World Cup.

Neymar's new Instagram bio pic.twitter.com/GUsg5EtjGz
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) May 18, 2026

Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023 due to injury issues, but he remains the country's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals. He's returned to form at Santos before earning his place in the squad, scoring and assisting steadily while logging full-match minutes on a game-to-game basis.

Brazil will begin its World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in the group stage.

This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 10:28 AM.

Sports Pass is your ticket to Miami sports

#ReadLocal