Neymar returns to Brazil’s World Cup plans as Messi also makes Argentina shortlist

Brazil star Neymar and Argentina captain Lionel Messi have both been included in their respective countries' preliminary squads for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

New Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly included Neymar in Brazil’s preliminary 55-man squad ahead of the final squad submission on May 18. The decision marks a major step in Neymar’s comeback journey after a long injury layoff.

Earlier, Ancelotti had made it clear that only players who were fully fit would be selected. Neymar had missed Brazil’s previous squad announcement while recovering from a serious ACL injury suffered during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023.

However, the situation has changed after Neymar’s return to Santos FC. The Brazilian forward has shown strong form since coming back to club football, scoring five goals and registering three assists in 12 matches.

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His performances have helped Santos improve their position in league table. Neymar’s return has also received support from several prominient names, including Messi. The Argentine had earlier spoken about Neymar’s importance to football, saying the World Cup will become more interesting if Brazilian forward is involved.

Messi named in Argentina's preliminary squad

Meanwhile, Argentina national football team also included Messi in their preliminary 55-man roster. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni officially submitted the list to FIFA on Monday, as confirmed on AFA's website.

Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar and is widely expected to lead the team again in North America, where he currently plays club football for Inter Miami CF.

The World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11 and will take place across multiple cities in Mexico, Canada, and United States.