Neymar is set to play for Brazil on Wednesday against Scotland for the first time in almost three years. The Santos forward missed Brazil’s first two group games against Haiti and Morocco due to a calf injury, but head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his inclusion for the decisive match. This return marks a pivotal moment for the Seleção as they chase World Cup glory in 2026.

Neymar, 34, is Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 national team goals, surpassing Pelé’s long-standing record. However, his road back has been fraught with setbacks. The last time he wore the yellow jersey was in October 2023, when Brazil lost 2-0 to Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier. During that match at the Estadio Centenario, Neymar suffered a devastating torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his left knee. The injury sidelined him for 369 days, with his official return to competitive football coming on October 21, 2024, for Al-Hilal in the Asian Champions League against Al-Ain. Earlier this year, Neymar also underwent knee surgery while playing for Santos to repair a damaged meniscus, further delaying his comeback.

Despite these challenges, Neymar has rebuilt his match fitness and rhythm through a consistent run of form with Santos after returning to his boyhood club in 2025. His performances earned him a spot in Brazil’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Now, the question is whether he can rescue Brazil’s World Cup dream or reignite controversies that have surrounded him in the past.

Opinions among pundits are divided. Eagle Stars FC coach Isma’il Musa told Daily Post that Neymar deserves his place. “I think Neymar deserves to be part of the Brazil squad. He is one of the best players in the world and Brazil’s all-time leading scorer,” Musa said. “His experience at the highest level, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Champions League, can be very valuable for the team. Even though he has had injuries, his leadership, creativity, and winning mentality can help the younger players. I believe he can play an important role in Brazil’s quest for the World Cup, although winning the tournament will require a strong team effort.”

Lagos-based journalist Femi Fabunmi echoed that sentiment, describing Neymar as a team player with plenty of skills. “Neymar as a footballer has the capacity and experience to feature for Brazil in this mundial,” Fabunmi said. “Yes, he might have been rocked with injuries, but his wealth of experience and football style cannot be overemphasized. A team player with plenty of skills, Brazil has what it takes to defeat Scotland, and Neymar will definitely contribute if fielded.”

Neymar’s Illustrious Career Path

Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior began his professional career at Santos FC in 2009, where he quickly became a phenomenon, winning the Copa Libertadores in 2011 and the South American Footballer of the Year award. His move to Barcelona in 2013 for €57.1 million formed the iconic MSN trio alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. At Barcelona, Neymar won La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, and the Copa del Rey, among other honors. In 2017, he transferred to Paris Saint-Germain for a world record €222 million, leading PSG to multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cups. However, his injury record at PSG was inconsistent, and after five seasons he moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia in 2023. There, he continued to face fitness issues but also scored crucial goals. In 2025, Neymar returned to Santos on a free transfer, seeking more playing time and a emotional homecoming.

Internationally, Neymar has been a key figure for Brazil since his debut in 2010. He has played in four World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022, and now 2026). His best moment came in 2014 when he led Brazil as captain to the semifinals, but a back injury knocked him out of the tournament. In 2018, Brazil reached the quarterfinals, eliminated by Belgium. In 2022, Brazil was eliminated by Croatia in the quarterfinals on penalties, despite Neymar scoring a sensational extra-time goal. He also won the Copa América in 2019 and the Olympic gold medal in 2016. With 79 international goals, he stands as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, a record he is determined to extend.

Ancelotti’s Role and Team Dynamics

Brazil’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has been under scrutiny since taking over. His decision to call up Neymar despite criticism from fans and media has been bold. Ancelotti stated after the Haiti win, “Neymar will train individually tomorrow, then Sunday back training with the team and then called up against Scotland.” The manager has emphasized the need for Neymar’s creativity and goal-scoring ability in a squad that includes young talents like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Endrick, and Raphinha. Ancelotti’s tactical system relies on high pressing and quick transitions, but also on individual brilliance from players like Neymar. However, integrating a player who has been out for so long presents challenges, especially regarding match fitness and chemistry.

Brazil’s group stage opponents include Haiti, Morocco, and Scotland. After wins against Haiti and Morocco, Brazil is already assured of a knockout place, but group seeding matters. Scotland, led by Steve Clarke, has experienced players like Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, and Kieran Tierney. A victory would give Brazil momentum and likely top the group.

Injury History and Recovery Timeline

Neymar’s knee injury in October 2023 was one of the worst of his career. A torn ACL and meniscus required surgery and extensive rehabilitation. He returned after 369 days, playing for Al-Hilal in October 2024. But that was not the only setback. In early 2025, Neymar underwent another knee surgery – this time to repair a damaged meniscus while at Santos. That procedure kept him out for several months. By mid-2025, he had regained full fitness and played consistently for Santos, scoring 12 goals in 18 appearances before the World Cup squad announcement. His calf injury just before the tournament raised doubts, but Ancelotti’s cautious approach appears to have paid off.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals.
• He last played for Brazil in October 2023 against Uruguay (lost 2-0, suffered ACL injury).
• Returned to competitive football on October 21, 2024 for Al-Hilal after 369 days out.
• Underwent knee surgery in 2025 for a torn meniscus while at Santos.
• Named to Brazil’s 26-man squad for 2026 World Cup after fitful return.
• Will play against Scotland on Wednesday in Brazil’s final group game.
• Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar’s call-up after individual training and full team sessions.
• Analysts and former players support Neymar’s inclusion, citing his experience and technical ability.

Brazilian football fans have mixed feelings about Neymar. Many remember his brilliance in the 2014 World Cup and his Olympic gold, but also his controversial moments on and off the pitch. The “chaos” referred to by some includes his transfer fee, his handling of injuries, and occasional disciplinary issues. However, his return could also spark unity and inspiration. The younger generation in Brazil’s squad, including talents like Vinícius Júnior and Endrick, grew up idolizing Neymar. His presence in the dressing room can provide mentorship.

On the tactical side, Neymar is expected to play as a left winger or a free role behind the striker. Ancelotti may deploy him in a front three alongside Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo or Raphinha. His ability to beat defenders, create chances, and score from distance remains world-class. However, defensive work rate is a concern. Brazil’s midfield, anchored by Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, and Lucas Paquetá, must provide cover. Defensively, Brazil’s backline of Marquinhos, Éder Militão, Danilo, and Alex Sandro is solid.

With the World Cup knockout stages approaching, Brazil’s chances of lifting the trophy depend heavily on the team’s cohesion. Neymar’s form and fitness will be critical. If he can replicate his 2022 World Cup performances – where he scored twice and created several chances – Brazil could be a serious contender. The six-time winners (if you count 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002, and consider 2014 not won) are always favorites, but recent tournaments have ended in disappointment. The 2026 edition, hosted in part by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, gives Brazil another chance to reclaim football’s greatest prize.

As the match against Scotland looms, all eyes are on Neymar. His comeback story is one of perseverance and determination. Whether he rescues the dream or stirs controversy will be written on the pitch. For now, Brazil supporters are cautiously optimistic, hoping that their all-time leading scorer can add another chapter to his storied career – a storybook ending with a sixth World Cup title.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria News