Brazil finally has its biggest star back on soccer’s grandest stage. After months of speculation surrounding his fitness, form, and future with the national team, Neymar Jr. was officially included in Brazil’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The announcement immediately triggered celebrations across social media with fans eager to watch the Santos forward compete for another world title in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. But one of the most emotional reactions came from Neymar’s longtime partner, Bruna Biancardi, who took to Instagram shortly after the squad list was confirmed.
© GC ImagesBruna Biancardi Shares Emotional Message to Neymar
Biancardi posted a photo on Instagram showing the couple together while fireworks and green-and-yellow flares lit up the background in Brazil’s national colors. Alongside the image, she wrote an emotional letter reflecting on Neymar’s difficult road back to soccer.
“I have seen and lived through difficult days with you,” Bruna wrote, referencing the physical and emotional challenges Neymar faced during the past several years. The influencer spoke candidly about the sacrifices the Brazilian star endured while battling injuries. According to her message, there were moments when “giving up seemed easier,” yet Neymar continued pushing forward.
© @neymarjrBiancardi also admitted she became concerned about the emotional impact of the criticism directed toward the footballer. “The frustrations, attacks, jokes, and sensationalist headlines made me genuinely worried about your emotional and psychological state,” she wrote.
Despite the negativity, she praised Neymar for refusing to abandon his goals. “It was emotional to see how many people recognize what many tried to erase,” Bruna added. “Now a new chapter begins, perhaps the one you’ve been waiting for the most. And this call-up is not luck. It’s the result of your dedication, faith, effort, courage, and love for what you do!”
She ended the message with a powerful sendoff to the Brazilian star: “Now it’s your time! SHINE.”
Neymar’s Long Road Back to the Brazilian National Team
Neymar’s inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad marks a major comeback story for the forward, who has faced one of the toughest stretches of his career. He suffered a torn ACL and meniscus injury in October 2023 while representing Brazil.
The injury sidelined him for an extended period and fueled widespread doubts about whether he would ever return in time for the 2026 World Cup.
© Getty ImagesDuring his recovery, Neymar also dealt with criticism surrounding his performances and off-field controversies, which included alleged cheating scandals and breakups. There were also questions about his commitment to the sport. Still, the 34-year-old remained determined to earn another opportunity with the Seleção.
Fans in Brazil have responded enthusiastically to the news of his return, as they see Neymar as a key figure in the country’s pursuit of a sixth World Cup trophy.
Public Challenges
The couple’s relationship has frequently made headlines since they began dating in 2021.
After several highly publicized separations linked to infidelity controversies, Neymar and Bruna reconciled near the end of 2024. They worked on rebuilding their relationship while raising their daughters, Mavie and Mel.
© IG: @brunabiancardi / neymarjrIn 2023, Neymar took the courage to apologize to Bruna Biancardi after reports of infidelity while she was pregnant. “I do this for both of you and your family,” he wrote in a translated Instagram post, alongside a photo of the couple. “I know that my actions were unjustifiable, and I do not need to justify myself. However, I need you in our lives.”
“Our purpose will prevail, our love for our baby will win, and our love for each other will make us stronger,” he pled.
