Neymar back for Brazil! Santos star handed international call-up for first time since 2023 as Antony misses cut despite impressive spell at Real Betis

Neymar has not featured for Brazil for over 17 months, when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and tore the meniscus in his left knee during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. However, the 33-year-old forward has been working hard on his recovery, hoping to play in the 2026 World Cup, which Canada, the United States and Mexico will host.

Neymar made a high-profile return to Santos - the club where he first rose to prominence - after an injury-plagued stint at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Since re-joining the Brazilian side, he has begun to show glimpses of his best form. His performances have steadily improved, with the experienced attacker scoring three goals in his last four matches for Santos, including a sensational free-kick in Santos' 2-0 win over Bragantino.

While Neymar celebrates his return to the Selecao, another Brazilian forward - Antony - was notably left out of the 23-man squad despite his impressive performances for Real Betis. Since joining the Spanish outfit on loan from Manchester United in January, the winger has made an instant impact, scoring two goals and providing two assists in his first five league matches. His standout performances included a crucial role in Betis’ 2-1 triumph over Real Madrid, highlighting his ability to shine on big occasions. However, despite his rich vein of form, coach Dorival Junior opted not to include the 23-year-old in his latest squad, as Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo along with Barcelona winger Raphinha were called up.

Brazil will next face Colombia at home on March 20, followed by a highly anticipated South American Clasico against Argentina in Buenos Aires on March 25. With Neymar back in the squad, fans will hope he can inspire Brazil to crucial victories and improve their chances of securing an automatic spot at the 2026 World Cup. The five-time world champions currently sit fifth in the South American qualification standings, trailing leaders Argentina by seven points after 12 games.

Full 23-man Brazil squad

Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker, Bento, Ederson.

Defenders: Danilo, Guilherme Arana, Wesley, Vanderson, Éder Militão, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Léo Ortiz, Murillo.

Midfielders: André, Bruno Guimarães, Gerson, Matheus Cunha, Neymar, Lucas Paquetá, Raphinha, Estêvão.

Forwards: João Pedro, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho, Vinícius Júnior.