Neymar Returns to Brazil Squad After Lengthy Injury Layoff

Neymar is back in the Brazil squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Colombia and Argentina, marking his return after a 17-month absence due to injury. The 33-year-old forward had been sidelined since October 2023, when he suffered an ACL injury in a match against Uruguay.

Key Highlights:

• Return After Injury: Neymar’s inclusion marks the end of a significant period of absence, boosting Brazil’s chances in the crucial World Cup qualifiers.
• Record and Ambitions: With a record 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, Neymar aims to participate in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
• Club Performance: After a tough stint with Al-Hilal, where he played only seven games due to his ACL injury, Neymar rejoined his former club Santos on a six-month deal. He has since scored three goals and provided three assists in seven appearances, working to regain his pre-injury form.
• Coach’s Perspective: Brazil’s head coach, Dorival Junior, emphasized the need to carefully manage Neymar’s game time, considering his recent return from injury and his performance in recent matches with Santos. He urged for a balanced approach, avoiding excessive pressure on Neymar to perform immediately.
• Team’s Qualifying Journey: Brazil is currently fifth in their qualifying group, trailing leaders Argentina by seven points after 12 games, and has struggled in World Cup qualifying without Neymar.
• Squad Selection: The squad announcement also noted the exclusion of Antony, despite his strong performances on loan at Real Betis, and Real Madrid’s Endrick.
• Coach’s Confidence: Despite the current standings, Dorival expressed confidence in the team’s progress and their ability to perform well in the upcoming matches.

Brazil Squad:

The squad includes notable players from top clubs:

• Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al-Nassr), Ederson (Manchester City)
• Defenders: Danilo (Flamengo), Guilherme Arana (Atletico Mineiro), Wesley Franca (Flamengo), Vanderson (Monaco), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Marquinhos (PSG), Leo Ortiz (Flamengo), Murillo (Nottingham Forest)
• Midfielders: Andre (Wolves), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Gerson (Flamengo), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Joelinton (Newcastle United)
• Forwards: Neymar (Santos), Estevao (Palmeiras), Joao Pedro (Brighton), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Savinho (Manchester City), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Brazil aims to improve their qualifying position with Neymar’s return and a strong showing in the upcoming “clasico” games.