Five-time world champions Brazil will face arch-rivals Argentina in a World Cup qualifier later this month. Before that, the Seleção will play another match against Colombia. The return of superstar Neymar Jr. to the squad for both matches was hinted at in the preliminary squad. Coach Darival Jr. has announced Brazil’s 23-man squad for the upcoming two matches, with him included.
The Brazilian coach revealed the squad today (Thursday) at a press conference. In which 21-year-old right-back Wesley has been called up to the national team for the first time. Darival also praised the young footballer in the team announcement. In addition, the Seleção coach is also happy with Neymar’s return to the team. He says, “There is nothing new to say about Neymar’s representation in the national team. We all know the injury rehabilitation that he has undergone. At the same time, it is not unknown how suitable his skills and abilities are to deal with any situation.”
Previously, Neymar suffered an ACL injury while playing for Brazil against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier in October 2023. Due to which he had to spend time off the field until October next year. He returned to the field in October 2024, playing for Saudi club Al-Hilal against Al-Ain in the AFC Champions League after a long time. After suffering another injury setback, Al-Hilal did not want to keep Neymar, who was also keen to return to Santos. As a result, he returned to his childhood home in the January winter window, leaving behind a large sum of money.
“We were waiting for him. I hope he will be happy to return. We are confident that we can provide him with the necessary security to regain his former ability here. We do not want to put too much expectation and responsibility on his shoulders. We want to create a balance in the upcoming difficult matches, I want to see him fully prepared for the team,” Darival said of the all-time leading international scorer in Brazil’s jersey.
Earlier this week, the Brazil coach announced a preliminary squad of 52 members. Of these, 23 have been finalised. In forming this squad, members of the coaching staff, including Darival, kept a close eye on European and Brazilian league matches. They observed the performances of the footballers. The Seleção will play World Cup qualifiers against Colombia on March 21 and arch-rivals Argentina on March 26.
Brazil is not in a very advantageous position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The top six teams from the Latin region will book their place in the World Cup. The seventh team will have to play in the play-offs. Brazil may be able to maintain their position in the top six, but that is not exactly the case for the most-time champions. The five-time world champions will want to change that situation after Neymar returns. Brazil is fifth in the South American World Cup qualifiers table. The top four are – Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador and Colombia, respectively.
Brazil squad for the upcoming two matches
Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker (Liverpool), Bento Matheus (Al-Nassr), Ederson Moirais (Manchester City)
Defenders: Venderson (Monaco), Wesley, Leo Ortiz, Danilo (Flamengo), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Marquinhos (PSG), Murillo (Nottingham), Guilherme Arena (Atletico Mineiro).
Midfielders: Andre (Wolves), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Gerson (Flamengo), Joelington (Newcastle)
Forwarders: Neymar (Santos), Estavo (Palmeira), Joao Pedro (Brighton), Rafinha (Barcelona), Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Savino (Manchester City), Matheus Cunha (Wolves).
