Brazil national team coach Dorival Junior has recalled Neymar to the squad after a 16-month injury layoff for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
Neymar had started Brazil’s first four qualifying matches but suffered an injury in a defeat to Uruguay in October 2023, marking his last appearance for the five-time world champions. Brazil has faced challenges in the South American World Cup qualifying campaign. After 12 of the 18 rounds, they currently sit fifth in the 10-nation group. However, the top six teams are guaranteed spots in the World Cup, and Brazil holds a five-point lead over seventh-placed Bolivia. Neymar is set to return for the qualifiers against Colombia on March 21 and world champions Argentina five days later. Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar announced last month that the next World Cup would be his last. He will be 34 years old when the competition in the USA, Canada, and Mexico kicks off. Neymar scored his first goal in over 14 months last Sunday, marking his first goal for Santos since rejoining his boyhood club at the beginning of the month. The 33-year-old contributed to Santos’ 3-1 victory over fourth-division Agua Santa in a Sao Paulo state championship match, converting a penalty in the 14th minute. This was his 137th goal in 229 appearances for Santos, the club he rejoined after leaving for Barcelona in 2013. It was also his first goal for any team since October 3, 2023, when he played for Al Hilal against Nassaji Mazandaran in the Asian Champions League. Neymar terminated his contract with the Saudi club in late January to return home. He spent 18 months with Al Hilal after transferring from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023 in a deal reportedly worth 100 million euros ($103m) per season. Neymar played five games for Al Hilal before sustaining a serious knee injury while playing for Brazil against Uruguay.
Neymar’s National Team Return: A Boost for World Cup Qualification
Neymar’s return to the Brazilian national team is highly significant, especially during a challenging period in the South American World Cup qualifiers. As the team’s leader and top scorer, his presence on the field is expected to significantly enhance Brazil’s offensive capabilities and inspire the team in crucial matches.
Recovery from Injury and Santos Comeback: Neymar’s Test of Resilience
The 16-month absence and serious injury posed a significant test for Neymar. However, his return to the field and goal for Santos demonstrate his willpower and recovery capability. Rejoining Santos, where his career began, may also have a positive psychological impact, boosting his confidence and motivation for new challenges.
World Cup 2026: A Final Opportunity – Neymar’s Declaration
Neymar’s statement about the 2026 World Cup being his last adds special importance to the upcoming qualifiers. This declaration may galvanize both Neymar and the entire team to exert maximum effort and secure a World Cup spot, making the most of his final opportunity on the world stage.
Dorival Junior’s Confidence in Neymar: The Role of a Team Leader
Coach Dorival Junior’s decision to recall Neymar to the national team reflects his confidence in the player and his crucial role within the squad. Neymar is not only a talented footballer but also an experienced leader who can inspire the team and guide them towards success.
Neymar’s return to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is a promising development for fans and the team alike. His experience, talent, and leadership qualities could be decisive for Brazil to successfully navigate the qualifiers and secure a deserving place in the World Cup.
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