Neymar included in Brazil's 55-player preliminary World Cup roster
Carlo Ancelotti named the Santos forward in Brazil's pre-list for the 2026 tournament, though his final selection remains uncertain pending fitness recovery.
The Brazilian Football Federation renewed Carlo Ancelotti's contract as national team coach for four additional years, extending through the 2030 World Cup.
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The Brazilian Football Federation announced Thursday the renewal of Carlo Ancelotti's contract as head coach of the national team through the 2030 World Cup. The Italian manager, 66, will remain in charge for four additional years following the agreement.
Ancelotti was appointed to the position in May 2025 after departing Real Madrid. In his first year leading Brazil, he has directed the team in ten matches, recording five victories, two draws, and three defeats. The squad has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States beginning June 11.
"From the very first minute, I understood what football means to this country," Ancelotti said in a statement released by the CBF. "For the past year, we have been working to lead the Brazilian national team back to the very top of the world stage. But the CBF and I want more. More victories, more time, more work. We are very happy to announce that we will continue together for another four years. We will go together until the 2030 World Cup. I want to thank the CBF for their trust. Thank you, Brazil, for the warm welcome and for all the affection."
The CBF stated in a note that the renewal reflects the federation's confidence in Ancelotti's work since his arrival, as well as the backing of the squad and supporters. CBF president Samir Xaud described the announcement as a historic day for the federation and Brazilian football, characterizing the contract extension as another firm step in the organization's commitment to the national team's development.
The announcement comes less than a month before the 2026 World Cup begins. Brazil will announce its final squad for the tournament Monday at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro. The event is expected to draw approximately 1,200 guests, including 300 journalists. By the weekend, the CBF had received nearly 600 accreditation requests, with interest from media outlets including a television station from Bangladesh, a nation not participating in the tournament.
Carlo Ancelotti named the Santos forward in Brazil's pre-list for the 2026 tournament, though his final selection remains uncertain pending fitness recovery.
After Santos drew 1-1 with San Lorenzo in Copa Sudamericana, Neymar expressed hope to play in 2026 World Cup and dreams of a final between Brazil and Argentina.
The Uruguayan-born defender won four European Cups with Real Madrid between 1957 and 1966 and later managed Spain's 1982 World Cup campaign.
Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa omitted the 39-year-old striker from the 55-player preliminary squad for the tournament in June.
Coach Sergej Barbarez named 26 players Monday, making Bosnia the first nation to reveal its roster for the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
FIFA launches Last-Minute Sales Phase on Wednesday, offering tickets across multiple pricing tiers on a first-come, first-served basis.