Neymar to stay in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad despite injury, Ancelotti confirms

Abdullateef Fowewe

Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. will remain in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite suffering an injury, and coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he will not be replaced.

In an announcement, Ancelotti stated the squad is final with no changes planned. The Italian coach expressed confidence that Neymar will return in time for Brazil’s opening match or shortly thereafter.

“We expect Neymar to be back in the first game vs Morocco or eventually on the following game,” Ancelotti stated during a press conference in São Paulo.

The World Cup-bound squad has been locked in.

Ancelotti emphasised that all 26 selected players will represent Brazil in the tournament, rejecting any late substitutions.

“We will not change anyone — the chosen players are these and I don’t change plans. All these 26 will play the World Cup,” he declared.

Neymar Jr., Brazil’s all-time leading scorer and a global icon of the sport, has been instrumental in the team’s qualification campaign.

His presence in the squad, even as a potential late addition, is seen as a motivational boost for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup aspirations.

The team departs for the World Cup later this week with all 26 players, including the sidelined star.