In the end, Neymar’s inclusion on Brazil’s 2026 World Cup roster—despite no national team appearances in almost three years—was not the big surprise. Rather, the shock came as João Pedro’s name was not on the list after 32 goals and assists since joining Chelsea 12 months ago.
With Rodrygo already ruled out and Estêvão also determined unable to compete, Neymar being recalled seemed obvious. But Pedro seemed a shoo-in given his production in a challenging league and his involvement in three of Carlo Ancelotti’s last four squad selections.
