Brazilian forward has been included in the national team’s expanded World Cup shortlist, Globo Esporte reports, as preparations continue ahead of finalizing the 26-man squad.

Rabat – Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has named Neymar in the 55-man preliminary squad for the upcoming World Cup, Globo Esporte reports.

According to the same source, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will forward this initial list to FIFA on Monday. Neymar’s inclusion ensures the Santos forward remains in contention as the team works toward finalizing its 26-man roster for the tournament.

His selection has stirred debate, given his recent struggles with a serious knee injury and recurring muscle problems. Neymar has not featured for Brazil since October 2023, when he ruptured his cruciate ligament and meniscus during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in Montevideo. The injury sidelined him for a year while he was playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

Since rejoining Santos in January 2025, Neymar has been working to regain the form demanded by Ancelotti for a national team return. His recent performances suggest progress: he scored his sixth goal of the season in Santos’ 2-0 victory over Bragantino in the Brazilian Championship on Sunday, and also found the net in last Wednesday’s 1-1 Copa Sudamericana draw against Recoleta in Paraguay.

Ancelotti is expected to announce the final World Cup squad on Monday, May 18, narrowing the list just weeks before the tournament kicks off.

The competition, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, begins on June 11. Brazil will open their campaign against Morocco on June 13.