(foto: Getty Images)
Neymar has officially returned to the Brazilian national team after more than a year and a half away.
The 33-year-old last played for Brazil in October 2023, when he suffered a serious knee injury in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, forcing him into a lengthy recovery.
Since making the decision to leave Al Hilal and return to his boyhood club Santos, Neymar has been rediscovering his form. In just seven matches, he has contributed three goals and three assists, quickly proving that he remains one of Brazil’s most influential players.
Dorival Junior has now rewarded Neymar’s resurgence by recalling him to the squad for Brazil’s next training camp. The forward will be part of the squad as Brazil looks to turn around its struggling World Cup qualifying campaign.
Following his call-up, Neymar expressed his excitement on social media, simply writing: "I’m happy to be back."
Brazil’s qualification struggles
The five-time world champions have endured a rough start to World Cup qualifying, currently sitting in fifth place after 12 matches. They trail bitter rivals Argentina by 12 points, making Neymar’s return all the more significant as Brazil aims to climb the standings.