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March 16, 2026 could mark the restart of one of the most emblematic trajectories in world football. This Monday, at 3:30 pm, coach Carlo Ancelotti announces the squad for the Brazilian team for the March friendlies, and the name of Neymar is the center of all attention. Without wearing Hopscotch since his tragic knee injury against Uruguay, in 2023, Santos’ number 10 is fighting against the clock and his own clinical history to guarantee his place in the World Cup.
Currently shining at Peixe, where he sought refuge to regain his rhythm and the joy of playing, Neymar is on Ancelotti’s short list. The presence of the Italian coach’s assistants in Vila Belmiro this Sunday (15) further increased rumors that the “Menino Rei” will finally have his first chance under the command of the current coach.
The Overcoming Path: From Al-Hilal to Santos
The path of Neymar returning to the Seleção’s radar was tortuous. After a physically frustrated spell in Saudi Arabia, the star made the strategic decision to return to Brazil in early 2025.
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Recovery in Santos: In the Campeonato Paulista, Neymar showed glimpses of his peak, adding important goals and assists.
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The “Almost” with Dorival: In 2025, the player was called up by Dorival Júnior, but a cut due to a muscle injury postponed the reunion.
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It was Ancelotti: Since the Italian’s arrival in May 2025, Brazil has gone through four call-ups without its main star, due to new surgeries and strengthening processes.
Summary: Neymar’s Situation for the Call-up
Check out the data that influence the decision of the National Team’s technical committee:
| Factor | Current Details |
| Last game for the national team | 10/17/2023 (Brazil 0x2 Uruguay) |
| Absence Time | Approximately 881 days |
| Current Club | Santos FC (Brazil) |
| Physical Condition | Played 90 minutes in the classic against Corinthians (15/03) |
| Status in the Selection | Present on Carlo Ancelotti’s pre-list |
| Ultimate Goal | Play in the 2026 World Cup in June |
The absence of Rodrygo, cut from the World Cup due to injury, increases the need for technical leadership in the offensive sector, which favors the return of Neymar. “My desire is to return to the national team and play in the World Cup,” said the striker after Santos’ draw on Sunday. If Ancelotti opts for the star’s experience, Boston and Orlando will be the stages for the resumption of a dream that seemed distant almost three years ago. The official list will be released at the CBF headquarters and the world is waiting: will number 10 be on it?
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