Sports Desk – Putting an end to mounting speculation, Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has officially included Neymar Jr. in the 55-man preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup.
However, the news is less fortunate for rising forward Estevao, who has been forced out due to injury.
According to a detailed report by ESPN, while Neymar’s name is prominently featured in the initial roster submitted to FIFA on Monday, Chelsea’s highly-rated teenager Estevao failed to make the cut.
The Estevao Blow
The 19-year-old Estevao suffered a critical muscle injury in his right thigh during a Premier League fixture against Manchester United on April 18.
Though initial hopes were high for a full recovery before the tournament, the medical assessments from both Brazil and Chelsea could not guarantee the 100% fitness level required for the competition.
Sources close to the player suggest that Estevao himself had come to terms with the low probability of participation, appearing visibly frustrated last week during a visit to his former club, Palmeiras, for continued treatment.
Neymar’s Big Comeback
For the 34-year-old Neymar, this inclusion is a defining moment on his road back to the world stage.
Brazil’s all-time leading goal-scorer (79 goals) had not been included in any previous squad announced by Carlo Ancelotti since the coach took over management of the national team.
His long-awaited return has ignited immediate excitement among the global fan base.
Other Significant Misses
Coach Ancelotti is a self-confessed admirer of Estevao—who moved to Chelsea in a deal worth approximately £29 million—making the decision a difficult tactical loss. The bad news doesn’t end there for the Seleção; Real Madrid defensive stalwart Eder Militao and forward Rodrygo are also set to miss the World Cup because of severe injuries, despite both being foundational pieces of Ancelotti’s strategic vision.
Per official FIFA regulations, all participating teams must submit this 55-member preliminary list by May 11.
While the full list is generally not publicized, the final 26-man squad must be selected exclusively from these designated players.