Neymar is expected to be out for up to three weeks with a right calf muscle injury, which makes him doubtful of appearing in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
According to the Brazilian National Team (Timnas), Rodrigo Lasmar, last week, the striker has been suffering from a right calf problem since May 17, 2026, when he last played in Santos’ league defeat against Coritiba.
“Neymar reported for duty yesterday at (Brazil’s training center) Granja Comary, underwent all medical tests, and we completed them with an MRI scan, which revealed a grade 2 muscle injury.”
“The player continues his treatment. We estimate he will be declared recovered and ready to play in two to three weeks,” Lasmar said.
Neymar, 34, missed the warm-up friendly against Panama in Brasilia on Monday, June 1, 2026 WIB. He is also expected to not return in the warm-up match against Egypt in Cleveland on June 5, 2026 local time.
Captain Santos is also in doubt for Brazil’s first match at the 2026 World Cup against Morocco at MetLife Stadium on June 13, 2026.
Brazil will also face Haiti on June 20, 2026 and Scotland on June 24, 2026 in the 2026 World Cup group stage.
“No player likes to be injured, but hopefully Neymar and all the players will be fit and healthy to play in the game we know we need everyone.”
“So, I think the doctor has explained very clearly that the recovery is going from day to day. We are very much looking forward to the return of all the players, just as the players themselves are looking forward to playing. So, all the players here are important,” said Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not played for the Samba Team since suffering an ACL injury in October 2023 while defending his country, but he was included in the final 26-man roster for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking his fourth World Cup appearance.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has left Neymar out of all previous call-ups, repeatedly stressing that he will only pick players who are at 100 per cent physical condition.
FIFA rules allow players from the World Cup squad to be replaced up to one day before the team’s first match at the tournament.
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