Neymar Makes a Comeback to the Brazil Squad After Over a Year Away, Revitalised at Santos

The Brazilian football federation announced on Thursday that Santos forward Neymar has been recalled to the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina, marking his return after more than a year away.

The 33-year-old suffered a knee injury during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. Since then, he has faced challenges in regaining his form and securing a place in the team.

Following a less than stellar stint with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, Neymar made a return to his childhood club, Santos, in January. Since rejoining, he has made an impressive impact, netting three goals and providing three assists in just seven appearances, which has certainly garnered the attention of Brazil’s coach, Dorival Junior.

Neymar boasts an impressive international record, with 128 caps and a remarkable 79 goals for Brazil, surpassing the legendary Pelé’s record of 77 goals.

He played a key role in Brazil’s gold medal-winning team at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and was instrumental in their runner-up finish to Argentina at the 2021 Copa America.

Currently sitting fifth in the CONMEBOL standings with 18 points from 12 matches, Brazil will host Colombia on March 21 and then travel to face Argentina five days later. The top six teams in the qualifying rounds will secure a direct spot at the World Cup.