Neymar was visibly emotional on Sunday as he broke down in tears while the Brazilian national anthem played before Santos’ Serie A encounter with Coritiba. With the announcement of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad scheduled for Monday, the veteran forward appeared deeply conscious of what could be at stake regarding his inclusion.
A moment of pure emotion at Vila Belmiro
The atmosphere at Vila Belmiro carried great symbolic weight as Neymar stood on the pitch where his football journey began. Cradling his daughter in his arms while the anthem resonated through the stadium, the 34-year-old could not hold back his tears, gently wiping them away as the magnitude of the moment sank in. For a player long accustomed to public scrutiny, it was a rare glimpse into the personal intensity behind his professional resurgence.
Sunday’s fixture against Coritiba marked Neymar’s last chance to impress before Carlo Ancelotti finalises Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad. Despite his efforts, the forward could not change the outcome as Santos suffered a 3-0 defeat. With the Selecao preparing for a tournament that will span venues across North America, the clip of Neymar’s emotional pre-match moment quickly went viral, showcasing the enormous pressure and passion linked to representing the five-time world champions at what could be his final World Cup.
The long road back from injury
Neymar’s return to this stage has been far from easy, shaped by both physical and professional challenges. He endured a severe ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, which ruled him out for an extended period. His subsequent spell with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League was marred by inconsistency, prompting speculation that his days competing at the top level of international football might be over.
Yet, his sentimental comeback to Santos in early 2025 reignited his career. Though he continued to battle fitness setbacks, he regained full match sharpness by February and steadily rebuilt his form. This revival shifted his reputation from one of decline to one of perseverance and determination. His displays in Brazil’s domestic league have brought him back into serious contention for national selection at just the right time for Ancelotti.
The final approach to the World Cup
Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil’s preliminary 55-man squad last week has kept hopes alive, but making the final 26-player list remains his ultimate challenge. Monday’s official reveal will determine whether the former Barcelona star will feature in his fourth World Cup. His career statistics remain unmatched — with 79 goals in 128 international appearances, he stands as Brazil’s all-time top scorer, surpassing the legendary Pele in 2023. Having represented his country at the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions, Neymar’s wealth of experience and leadership could prove invaluable to Ancelotti’s plans for the Selecao.
