Neymar has been recalled to the Brazil squad by coach Dorival Junior for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina, marking his return after a 16-month injury layoff.
The forward last played for the national team in October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee injury during Brazil’s defeat to Uruguay. His absence has coincided with a rough patch for the five-time world champions, who currently sit fifth in South American qualifying. However, with six teams guaranteed a spot in the World Cup, Brazil remains five points ahead of seventh-placed Bolivia.
Neymar will be 34 when the 2026 World Cup begins and has stated it will be his final appearance in the tournament.
The 33-year-old made his long-awaited return to the pitch earlier this month after terminating his contract with Saudi club Al Hilal to rejoin Santos, the club where he began his career. Last Sunday, he ended a 14-month goal drought, scoring from the penalty spot in Santos’ 3-1 victory over Agua Santa in the Sao Paulo state championship.
Neymar played only five matches for Al Hilal before his injury but was reportedly earning €100 million ($103m) per season.
Brazil will face Colombia on March 21 before taking on reigning world champions Argentina five days later.
