Neymar Jr.’s ambition of playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains alive after he was named to Brazil’s 55-man preliminary squad by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Veteran sports journalist Fabrizio Romano acknowledged this as a recent development on X (previously Twitter).
The 34-year-old Santos attacker, who has experienced physical setbacks in recent years, is still working to show his health ahead of the event, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next month.
The reports also confirmed that Chelsea’s youngster Estevao Willian has been dropped off the provisional list due to a hamstring injury that has kept him out of contention.
According to reports in Brazil, Ancelotti is concerned about Neymar’s physical condition and will only choose players who can compete at the greatest level.
Although Neymar has the chances of reaching the final 26-man squad are unknown, the former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star is reportedly motivated to compete in what may be his final World Cup.
Brazil, who are aiming for a record sixth World Cup championship, will unveil their final lineup on May 18. Under Ancelotti’s direction, the Seleção is expected to be a top contender for the trophy in the tournament.
