Brazil’s hopes at the 2026 FIFA World Cup may receive a major boost as star forward Neymar prepares for his long awaited return against Scotland on Wednesday, marking his first appearance for the Seleção in nearly three years.
The Brazil national football team talisman missed Brazil’s opening two group stage fixtures against Haiti and Morocco while recovering from a calf injury.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has now confirmed that Neymar is expected to feature in the team’s decisive final group match.
Speaking after Brazil’s victory over Haiti, Ancelotti said during his post match interview, “Neymar will train individually tomorrow, then Sunday back training with the team and then called up against Scotland.”
At 79 international goals, Neymar remains Brazil’s all time leading scorer and one of the most influential players in the country’s football history.
His inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad has sparked mixed reactions among fans and pundits. While some questioned whether the 34 year old was physically ready for the tournament, others welcomed his return, citing his experience and game changing quality.
Neymar last played for Brazil in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay at Estadio Centenario, where Brazil suffered a 2 0 defeat. During that match, he sustained a serious ACL and meniscus injury.
After a lengthy recovery, Neymar returned to competitive football on October 21, 2024, featuring for Al Hilal in an AFC Champions League clash against Al Ain FC. His comeback came 369 days after the injury setback.
In 2025, while playing for Santos FC, Neymar underwent another successful knee surgery to repair a damaged meniscus.
Earlier this year, the former FC Barcelona star regained fitness and rhythm through a consistent run of performances with Santos, earning his place in Brazil’s final 26 man squad for the World Cup.
Football analyst Isma’il Musa believes Neymar still has much to offer the national team.
“I think Neymar deserves to be part of the Brazil squad. He is one of the best players in the world and Brazil’s all time leading scorer,” Musa said.
“And his experience at the highest level, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Champions League, can be very valuable for the team.
“Even though he has had injury problems, his leadership, creativity, and winning mentality can help the younger players.
“I believe he can play an important role in Brazil’s quest for the World Cup, although winning the tournament will require a strong team effort from the entire squad,” he said.
Journalist Femi Fabunmi also expressed confidence in Neymar’s ability to make an impact if selected.
“Neymar as a footballer has the capacity and experience to feature for Brazil in this mundial,” Fabunmi said.
“Yes, he might have been rocked with injuries for some time now, but his wealth of experience and football style cannot be over emphasized.
“A team player with plenty of skills, Brazil has what it takes to defeat Scotland, and Neymar will definitely contribute if fielded,” he further stated.
As Brazil approaches a crucial stage in its World Cup campaign, all eyes will be on Neymar to see whether he can inspire the team’s title ambitions or whether concerns over his fitness will persist.
