World Cup 2026: Neymar Jr Will Be Called Up for Brazil’s Next Game Against Scotland

Neymar Jr is finally set to make his return to the Brazil squad. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that the forward will be called up for Brazil’s decisive World Cup 2026 Group C clash against Scotland, marking his first involvement in match action since a calf injury sidelined him for the tournament’s opening two fixtures.

The update comes as a major boost for Brazilian fans, who have been eager to see the country’s all-time leading scorer feature at what could be his final World Cup.

Ancelotti Confirms Neymar’s Return

Speaking after Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti, Ancelotti laid out a clear path for Neymar’s reintegration into the squad ahead of the Scotland match.

Ancelotti explained that Neymar would train individually first before rejoining the full squad, confirming the forward would then be available for selection against Scotland.

Neymar’s Path Back to Fitness

Neymar’s recovery timeline has been closely tracked since Brazil’s World Cup squad was announced, with his troublesome calf forcing him to sit out the team’s matches against both Morocco and Haiti.

Reports indicate Neymar has not featured in a competitive match since playing for Santos in Brazil’s domestic league on May 17, making his return against Scotland his first appearance in well over a month.

Why Neymar’s Return Matters

A recall against Scotland would represent more than just a fitness milestone. It would mark Neymar’s first appearance for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a serious ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.

Despite his achievements at club level and his standing as Brazil’s record goalscorer, Neymar has never won a World Cup with the national team, and persistent injuries have repeatedly disrupted his chances across three previous tournaments. At 34, this World Cup is widely viewed as his last realistic opportunity to finally lift the trophy.

What Role Will Neymar Play?

While Neymar’s availability is confirmed, his immediate role is expected to be limited given how long he has been out of match action. Brazil’s attack under Ancelotti has shifted in recent months, relying heavily on a different attacking pairing rather than building around Neymar as in years past.

Given the importance of the Scotland fixture in Brazil’s push to finish top of Group C, a start for Neymar appears unlikely. Coming back after such a long absence, he is far more likely to be eased in from the bench, where his creativity and experience could still make a difference in the closing stages of the match.

Brazil’s Group Stage Picture

Brazil currently sit top of Group C, though only on goal difference, meaning the result against Scotland carries real weight. Ancelotti has stressed the importance of finishing first in the group, which would have a direct impact on Brazil’s path through the knockout stages.

With Neymar back in the fold and the rest of the squad in strong form following the win over Haiti, Brazil will be hoping his return adds an extra dimension to their attack as the tournament heads into its decisive phase.

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