Brazil’s “prodigal son” has made a return, with Carlo Ancelotti including Neymar in his World Cup squad selection.

Brazil star Neymar has been recalled to the national team for the World Cup, marking a dramatic return after almost three years away from international duty.

The 34-year-old forward, Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, was named in the 26-man squad announced by coach Carlo Ancelotti during a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, drawing loud cheers from the audience.

Neymar’s inclusion comes after months of speculation over his future with the national side. He had not featured for Brazil since sustaining a serious knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in 2023.

Persistent injuries and inconsistent form had kept him out of the squad, with Ancelotti previously excluding him from recent international friendlies against France and Croatia due to fitness concerns.

The forward, who rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January after a difficult spell in Saudi Arabia, has now earned a place in Brazil’s World Cup plans in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Brazil, aiming for a record-extending sixth World Cup title, will begin their campaign on June 13 against Morocco, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in Group C. — AFP