Brazilian football star Neymar Junior has been included in Brazil’s final 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, ending months of speculation about his participation. Concerns over his injury, surgery, and fitness had cast doubt on his availability, but coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar’s inclusion during a press conference at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro.

The announcement sparked excitement as Ancelotti read Neymar’s name, confirming that Brazil will pursue its sixth World Cup title with the forward in the lineup. Other key players named include Alisson Becker, Marquinhos, Casemiro, Danilo, Fabinho, Lucas Paquetá, Endrick, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, and Vinícius Junior. One notable omission from the squad is Rodrygo, whose absence was described as a major surprise.

With Neymar’s return, Brazil’s campaign under Ancelotti is set to focus on reclaiming global dominance, as the team prepares to embark on its “hexa mission” for a sixth World Cup title.