Brazilian national team's historical top scorer Neymar Jr. arrives at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Aug 18, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

RIO DE JANEIRO - Neymar has been recalled to Brazil's national squad for the team's opening 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru, the Brazilian football confederation said on Friday.

The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico will be the first to feature an expanded 48-team format

The 31-year-old, who left Paris Saint-Germain this week to join Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal, has not represented his country since last year's World Cup in Qatar because of an ankle injury.

ALSO READ:Spalletti appointed as Italy's new head coach

"He (Neymar) deserves the chance to write the most beautiful chapter in his career, which I think has not yet been written," Brazil manager Fernando Diniz told a news conference.

As expected, Neymar will be joined in attack by Real Madrid duo Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior, as well as Tottenham's Richarlison, Manchester United's Antony and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli.

ALSO READ: Kane can handle pressure at champions Bayern, says coach

Brazil will meet Bolivia in Belem on September 8 and Peru in Lima four days later.

The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico will be the first to feature an expanded 48-team format.