Brazilian football star Neymar has made a notable return to the national team, being named in the squad for the upcoming World Cup after nearly three years away. Coach Carlo Ancelotti announced Neymar's inclusion in a 26-man roster during a gala event in Rio de Janeiro, where the news was met with enthusiastic cheers from attendees.

Neymar's Journey Back

At 34 years old, Neymar, who is Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, had not represented his country since suffering a knee injury during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay in 2023. His absence from the national team was attributed to a combination of injuries and a dip in form, which led Ancelotti to exclude him from Brazil's squad for friendly matches against France and Croatia in March.

World Cup Aspirations

Neymar's return comes after he rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January, following a challenging period in Saudi Arabia. With the World Cup set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Brazil is aiming for a record sixth title. The team will kick off their campaign against Morocco on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in Group C.

As Brazil prepares for the tournament, Neymar's presence could prove pivotal as they seek to reclaim their status at the top of international football.