Former captain Neymar has been recalled by Brazil after an absence of almost 1 1/2 years. The 33-year-old striker was included in the national squad by coach Dorival Junior on Thursday for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina this month.

Brazil have recalled Santos forward Neymar for this month's World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina after more than a year, the soccer federation announced on Thursday.

With upcoming games against Colombia and Lionel Messi's Argentina on the horizon, Brazil coach Dorival Junior has made a significant decision regarding Neymar's return to the national team.

Without their leader and star player, Brazil have struggled in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The Seleçao currently sit fifth in the standings, seven points back of bitter rivals and leaders Argentina. Finishing sixth or better grants direct qualification for the World Cup in Conmebol, but Brazil's history demands finishing as high as possible.

Neymar Junior has been named in the Brazil provisional squad for the March international break, after a year and a half out of the Brazil squad.

Ever since Neymar left Saudi Arabia in January to return to Santos FC on a short-term contract, talks of a possible summer move to FC Barcelona have been doing the rounds.The 33-year-old winger is