Neymar Returns to Brazil Squad After 17 Months for Crucial WC Qualifiers

Neymar is back in Brazil squad after 17 months out due to injury, as announced by coach Dorival Junior for March 2025 qualifiers vs Colombia and Argentina. Brazil, currently 5th in CONMEBOL standings, also miss Casemiro, Richarlison, and Militão. Neymar has 128 caps and 3 goals in 7 games since rejoining Santos.

When it comes to international football, few teams command the attention Brazil does, and the latest squad announcement for the March 2025 World Cup qualifiers has reignited global interest. With Brazil currently sitting fifth in the CONMEBOL standings after disappointing draws against Venezuela and Uruguay, there's added pressure to get their campaign back on track. The big news? Neymar returns to the national squad after a 17-month absence due to a serious ACL injury and a muscle setback. Now back in form with Santos, Neymar has scored 3 goals and assisted 3 in 7 matches, earning his 128th Brazil cap.

Coach Dorival Junior named a 23-man squad, blending experience and youth. Notable absentees include Casemiro, Richarlison, Martinelli, Paquetá, and defenders Militão and Bremer. Key players like Alisson, Ederson, Marquinhos, Bruno Guimarães, Vinícius Jr., and Rodrygo will shoulder added responsibility.

Brazil faces Colombia and Argentina in must-win fixtures. With Neymar leading the charge, fans are hopeful his return will spark a turnaround. His fiery motivation and deep connection to the national jersey may prove decisive in Brazil’s push to reclaim dominance in the qualifiers. The road ahead is tough, but the Selecao’s talent pool is still one of the strongest in world football.