After a long -term absence from the international scene, Neymar is back in the Brazil -squad. The 33-year-old forward has been recalled by manager Dorival junior for this month 2026 World Cup qualification against Colombia and Argentina.
Brazil’s return Topscores all the time Coming in an important moment for Seleção. With their qualifying campaign they now wake up fifth in the position of 18 pointsTrailing Argentina with seven. The five times the world champions need a spark, and Neymar’s return may be exactly what they need.
The 33-year-old forward played last for Brazil On October 17, 2023in one 2-0 loss to Uruguay. That night in Montevideo ended in heart damage to the superstar, who broken his front Cruciate ligament (ACL) and tore his meniscus In stop time in the first half. With a stretcher in tears, his absence left a void in the squad, both in leadership and creativity.
After almost a year and a half of rehabilitation, Neymar made a high profile return to SantosThe club where he first rose to prominent. His stint at Al-Hilal in Saudi Pro League had been tormented by injuries, but since he agreed to the Brazilian side, He has begun to show glimpse of his best form. In his last four matches, Neymar has scored Three goalsincluding an amazing free kick in Peixes 2-0 victory over Bragantino. His performances have proven that he is ready to return to the highest level.
🚨🇧🇷 Neymar JR, back as part of Brazil squad for the upcoming international games.
Brazil’s need for Neymar’s leadership
With 128 caps and 79 international goalsNeymar is Brasil’s most experienced and decorated active players. His inclusion in the squad is more than just a return to shape; It is a statement of intent. Dorival junior is expected to leave him No.10 shirt and captain’s braceletReinforces his leadership role in a squad that has been fighting for texture in recent months.
The upcoming fixtures will define moments for Brazil’s qualification hopes. They meet Colombia at home on March 20 Before you go to Buenos Aires for one South American Clasico against Argentina on March 25. With Neymar back in the lineup, expectations are that the green yellow will deliver strong performance and improve their position.

Surprise surveys: Endrick and Antony omitted
While Neymar’s return is the headline, there were no remarkable names from Dorival Juniors 23-man squad. Antony, currently in excellent form for real betisWas omitted despite his impressive performances since he agreed on the Spanish side on loan from Manchester United. The wing has already scored goals two goals and gave two assists In his first five league matches and plays a key role in Betis’ 2-1 victory over Real Madrid. Despite this, he has not done enough to get a call, with Blessing, rodrygo and raphinha preferred in attacking positions.

Another omission is 18-year-old EndrickWhich will remain in Madrid during this international break. The Real Madrid-bound striker Has been tipped as Brasil’s future star but will have to wait for his next opportunity to represent the national team.