Neymar returns to Brazil squad as Antony left out despite revival at Real Betis
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Brazil’s all-time top scorer, Neymar, is set to make his long-awaited return to international football after being named in the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
The 33-year-old forward has been sidelined since October 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee while representing Brazil. His absence has been keenly felt, with the team struggling in the South American qualifiers.
Neymar, who has netted a record 79 goals in 128 appearances for his country, has made no secret of his ambition to feature in the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
In an effort to regain form and fitness, he rejoined his boyhood club Santos during the winter transfer window after an injury-plagued stint with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, where he managed just seven appearances in 18 months.
After scoring in Santos’ 2-0 victory over Bragantino – his third goal in four games – Neymar spoke about his progress, saying: “I am getting back into my best physical shape.”
Since Neymar’s injury, Brazil has faced difficulties in their World Cup qualifying campaign. The team currently sits fifth in the standings, trailing leaders Argentina by seven points after 12 matches.
ISSO É BRASIL! 🇧🇷
📝Seleção Brasileira convocada para as partidas contra Colômbia e Argentina, pelas Eliminatórias da Copa do Mundo de 2026.
Confira a lista completa do técnico @dorivaljroficial!
Vamos juntos! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/p7rZ52n5oH
— CBF Futebol (@CBF_Futebol) March 6, 2025
Under head coach Dorival Junior, Brazil has recorded five wins and four losses in the qualifiers.
The upcoming fixtures will be crucial, with a home match against Colombia in Brasilia on March 20, followed by a showdown against reigning world champions Argentina in Buenos Aires on March 25.
Meanwhile, there is no call-up for Manchester United’s Antony, despite the winger being named in the provisional squad.
The attacker – on loan at Real Betis – has returned to his best form in Spain, scoring twice and adding two assists in his first five La Liga matches.
But he has been overlooked in favour of his Premier League rivals, including Lucas Paqueta, Savinho and Joao Pedro.
📰 Table Of Contents
- 1 Full 23-Man Brazil Squad
- 1.1 Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker, Bento, Ederson
- 1.2 Defenders: Danilo, Guilherme Arana, Wesley, Vanderson, Eder Militao, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, Leo Ortiz, Murillo
- 1.3 Midfielders: Andre, Bruno Guimaraes, Gerson, Matheus Cunha, Neymar, Lucas Paqueta, Raphinha, Estevao
- 1.4 Forwards: Joao Pedro, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho, Vinicius Junior
Full 23-Man Brazil Squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson Becker, Bento, Ederson
Defenders: Danilo, Guilherme Arana, Wesley, Vanderson, Eder Militao, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, Leo Ortiz, Murillo
Midfielders: Andre, Bruno Guimaraes, Gerson, Matheus Cunha, Neymar, Lucas Paqueta, Raphinha, Estevao
Forwards: Joao Pedro, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho, Vinicius Junior
https://www.101greatgoals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Neymar.jpg
