Brazil returns home empty after World Cup exit; Neymar heads to Orlando

The Brazil national team landed back in Brazil this afternoon with only two squad members, after the knockout loss to Norway at the 2026 World Cup. The flight left New Jersey at 2 p.m. local time and brought back goalkeeper Leo Nanetti and right‑back Danilo, both from Flamengo, while Neymar, Vini Jr and coach Carlo Ancelotti headed to different destinations.

Why did the delegation arrive so thin?

The decision to release most of the squad was made right after the Norway match on Sunday (5). Ancelotti gave permission for any player who wanted to return home immediately. Neymar boarded a flight to Orlando, Florida, accompanied by family and friends, taking a break before rejoining Santos. Vini Jr caught a plane to Ibiza, where he will spend his vacation season with club mates. Only Nanetti, who took part in recent training sessions, and Danilo stayed for the return flight.

How does this impact the Brazilian football calendar?

With the national team almost empty, attention shifts to the Brasileirão, which restarts on July 16 with the Botafogo vs Santos classic. Among the names still active in the league are Weverton, Alex Sandro, Danilo Santos and Lucas Paquetá. Meanwhile, Europe’s top leagues, such as the Premier League and LaLiga, resume only in the second half of August, giving Brazilian players extra rest time.

What’s the recent form of the national side?

The Brazil last official match ended in a 1‑1 draw against Tunisia on November 18 2025. In the previous four fixtures the team posted two wins, one draw and one loss (DWLW, most recent first), a mixed run that culminated in an early exit.

What’s next for the released players?

Neymar is already in Orlando, with no set date to rejoin Santos, while Vini Jr enjoys Ibiza’s beaches. Ancelotti stopped in New York before heading to Vancouver, Canada, for a vacation stint. In Brazil, Léo Pereira will stay in the U.S. to rest, and Raphinha returned to Rio Grande do Sul on his own. Most of these players will only see action again when domestic and European competitions kick off in the coming months.