Neymar Included in Brazil's Preliminary Squad for Crucial Pre-World Cup Friendlies

Neymar Jr. has received a major boost in his quest to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Brazilian superstar named in the Seleção's preliminary squad for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia.

Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the 34-year-old forward, currently shining at boyhood club Santos after his return from Al-Hilal, made the pre-list for the March international window. Final confirmation of the squad is expected in the coming days, with fitness assessments remaining key following his long injury battles.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to personally evaluate Neymar, attending Santos' upcoming match against Mirassol to monitor his form firsthand. The veteran has shown promising signs this season, contributing significantly in goals and assists despite limited minutes, fueling hopes of a fairytale return.

These friendlies—against France in Boston on March 26 and Croatia in Orlando on March 31—represent Brazil's last testing ground before naming the final 26-man roster for the home-soil (co-hosted) World Cup in June. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not featured for the national team in years due to ACL and ankle setbacks, making this potential recall a pivotal moment.

Fans and pundits alike are buzzing: can the magic of the No. 10 jersey spark one last iconic chapter? Ancelotti's decision will carry huge weight as Brazil chases a record sixth World Cup title.