Neymar is back in the Brazil squad for the first time in 17 months after being called up for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
After a frustrating injury-hit spell with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, the 33-year-old has appeared revitalised since returning to his boyhood club Santos in January.
A return of three goals and three assists in seven league appearances has persuaded coach Dorival Junior to give Neymar his first call up since he suffered a knee injury against Uruguay in October 2023.
The former Barcelona and Paris St Germain forward has scored 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil. He is the country’s record goalscorer, two clear of Pele, while only Cafu made more appearances with 142 caps.
Brazil, fifth in the Conmebol standings with 18 points from 12 games, host Colombia on March 21 before facing Argentina in Buenos Aires on March 25.
The Brazil squad also includes 10 Premier League players, including Manchester City’s Ederson and Savinho, Wolves duo Andre and Matheus Cunha, and Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton of Newcastle.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, Arsenal’s Gabriel, Brighton’s Joao Pedro and Murillo of Nottingham Forest are also included.
