SAO PAULO – The “Neymar for 2026” campaign has shifted into high gear. With just days to go before Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti unveils his final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the nation’s all-time leading scorer has delivered a timely reminder of his enduring quality.
Santos Scintillates: Neymar Leads the Way
In a high-stakes league clash against Red Bull Bragantino, Neymar was the catalyst for a dominant 2-0 victory for Santos FC. The 34-year-old opened the scoring after a slick link-up with Gabriel Bontempo, finishing with the trademark composure that has defined his career. Beyond the goal, Neymar’s influence was palpable, orchestrating play from a deeper creative role that many believe is the key to his longevity.
This performance marks a significant uptick in form for the forward, who has now recorded five goals and three assists in 12 appearances since returning to his boyhood club.
The Ancelotti Deadline
The timing of Neymar’s resurgence could not be more critical. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is scheduled to announce his 26-man roster on May 18. While Neymar was included in the preliminary 55-man list submitted to FIFA, his spot on the plane to North America was far from guaranteed.
Ancelotti has been firm in his stance throughout the qualifying campaign, stating:
”I will only call up players who are physically ready and playing at their highest competitive level.”
Neymar’s recent displays at Santos suggest he is meeting those criteria, potentially securing what would be his fourth World Cup appearance.
