Neymar has spoken about the huge emotional weight of returning to the international stage, admitting that he burst into tears after being included in Brazil national football team’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The Santos FC star reflected on the difficult journey following a long-term injury in order to secure a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans.
After his name was confirmed in Ancelotti’s final squad list for the World Cup, Neymar appeared on Santos TV to express the depth of his emotions.
The Santos number 10, who spent a long period away from the pitch due to a serious injury suffered in October 2023, revealed that the call-up announcement brought an outpouring of relief and gratitude for all the effort made during his recovery.
“I cried for several hours. It wasn’t easy to get here. Once my name was announced, you realize it was worth overcoming everything and enduring all the hard work,” said the former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star.
The footballer believes that the support he received at the “Rei Pelé” training center was crucial to fulfilling his dream of playing again for the Brazilian national team, considering the club his safe place during the most difficult months of his career.
“To tell you the truth, just as I’ve always said since I returned, this place feels like home to me. It’s something very hard to explain.
“I want to thank everyone. My call-up was not only for me, it was for everyone who is part of the process, for everyone who was with me on the field and off the field, who took care of our safety, our bodies, and our nutrition.
“Thank you for the support and for always believing in me. I’m here to thank you for the support throughout my entire career.
“We are all together in this Brazil team that is going for its sixth title,” he concluded.
