Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has included Neymar Jr in a 55-man preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Chelsea forward Estêvão has been omitted due to injury. The list, submitted to FIFA on Monday, also reflects several injury-related absences ahead of the tournament selection process.
According to an ESPN report, Neymar’s inclusion marks a significant step in his bid to return to World Cup action. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer with 79 international goals under Ancelotti’s management era context, had not featured in previous squad selections since the coach’s appointment. His return to the preliminary group signals renewed consideration at national team level.
Estêvão, aged 19, has been ruled out after sustaining a right thigh muscle injury during a Premier League match against Manchester United on 18 April. Initial expectations suggested he could recover in time for the tournament, but medical assessments conducted by both Brazil and Chelsea confirmed that full fitness could not be guaranteed. As a result, he has not been included in the preliminary squad.
Reports further indicate that the player himself had already anticipated a low likelihood of World Cup participation. During a recent visit to his former club Palmeiras for treatment, he was described as visibly disappointed.
Under FIFA regulations, all participating nations must submit a 55-player preliminary squad by 11 May. Although these lists are not publicly released in full, they form the basis for the final 26-man squad selection.
Key Squad Updates
| Player | Club | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neymar Jr | Al-Hilal / Brazil | Included | Named in preliminary squad |
| Estêvão | Chelsea | Not included | Right thigh muscle injury |
| Éder Militão | Real Madrid | Not included | Serious injury |
| Rodrygo | Real Madrid | Not included | Serious injury |
Estêvão’s absence is notable given the high expectations surrounding his rapid rise. He joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in the summer transfer window for a reported fee of around £29 million. Since his arrival, he has featured in 36 matches across all competitions, scoring eight goals. Prior to his injury, he was widely regarded as a strong candidate for inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Both Éder Militão and Rodrygo of Real Madrid are also absent due to injuries. They were considered key components in Ancelotti’s tactical plans before being ruled out of contention.
The final 26-man squad will be selected from this 55-player preliminary list in accordance with FIFA tournament regulations.
