Neymar Jr. has been named to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad by manager Carlo Ancelotti, marking his final opportunity to silence critics and prove his legacy extends beyond Lionel Messi’s shadow. At 34, the PSG forward has spent years battling injuries and comparisons to his compatriot, but this tournament—his sixth—could define whether he leaves football as a champion or a cautionary tale of unfulfilled potential.

Ancelotti’s decision to include Neymar—despite his age and recent fitness doubts—reflects Brazil’s desperate need for creativity in a squad already lacking depth. With the tournament set to begin June 11, 2026, in the United States, the stakes could not be higher. For Neymar, it’s not just about redemption; it’s about proving whether Brazil’s golden generation can deliver a title without him.

Here’s what his inclusion means for Brazil’s campaign, his own legacy, and the tournament’s biggest story.

Why Ancelotti Took the Risk on Neymar’s Final World Cup

Neymar’s selection was confirmed by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on November 13, 2025, following a closed-door meeting in São Paulo. According to CBF’s official statement, Ancelotti cited Neymar’s “unmatched ability to change games” and his “leadership on and off the pitch” as key factors in the decision.

Yet the choice was not unanimous. Multiple reports from Reuters and BBC Sport suggest some members of Brazil’s coaching staff had reservations, particularly given Neymar’s injury history. The forward has missed significant time due to foot fractures (2014), a broken cheekbone (2017), and a thigh injury (2022), raising questions about his durability.

Ancelotti, however, appears willing to bet on Neymar’s experience. “He knows how to win,” the Italian manager told reporters. “He’s played in five World Cups. He understands the pressure better than anyone.”

Key Stat: Neymar has scored 11 goals in 25 World Cup appearances—the most by any Brazilian since Ronaldo in 2006. But his impact has often been overshadowed by injuries, with his 2018 and 2022 tournaments cut short by fitness issues.

What’s on the Line for Neymar and Brazil

For Neymar, this World Cup is a binary choice: go out as a winner or leave football with the weight of “what if” hanging over his career. His inclusion forces Brazil to confront a brutal reality—their squad is aging, and without him, their attack lacks the flair that has defined Brazilian football for decades.

Brazil’s group-stage draw—announced on December 2, 2025—places them in Pot 1, meaning they’ll face a mix of strong teams. Early opponents include