Will Neymar be fit to play Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener vs Morocco? | FIFA World Cup 2022

Brazil star Neymar Jr.’s hopes of entering the 2026 FIFA World Cup fully fit have suffered a setback after medical examinations confirmed a calf injury that could keep him out for up to three weeks.

The veteran forward had earlier brushed aside concerns surrounding his fitness after missing Santos’ previous three matches. While attending Santos’ Copa Sudamericana victory over Deportivo Cuenca earlier this week, Neymar appeared irritated when questioned about the issue and denied there was any serious problem.

However, Brazil’s medical staff later confirmed that the situation was more serious than initially believed.

Brazil Medical Team Confirms Grade 2 Calf Injury

Neymar arrived at Brazil’s training base in Teresópolis but did not participate in training sessions with the squad. Brazil national team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar later revealed that scans detected a Grade 2 calf injury rather than simple swelling.

According to the medical update, Neymar is expected to return in approximately two to three weeks, placing his availability for Brazil’s World Cup opener in doubt.

Questions Over Neymar’s Role in Brazil Squad

Even before the injury setback, there were already debates regarding Neymar’s place in Brazil’s starting lineup under coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The Italian manager avoided giving any guarantees when asked whether Neymar would start during the tournament, suggesting that the forward would need to compete for his place like every other player in the squad.

Brazil’s executive coordinator Rodrigo Caetano also stressed that Neymar understands he is now part of a collective setup rather than an automatic starter.

According to Caetano, Neymar accepted the challenge positively and is prepared to fight for minutes and prove his value to the team.

Neymar’s International Return Still Uncertain

Neymar has struggled with injuries over the last few years and has not started a match for Brazil since suffering an ACL injury against Uruguay in October 2023.

Since the 2022 World Cup, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has made only a handful of international appearances. Despite that, the Brazilian coaching staff continue to place strong faith in his experience and quality.

Team officials reportedly considered both his physical progress and technical ability before deciding to include him in the preliminary World Cup plans.

At 34, Neymar could be preparing for his fourth FIFA World Cup, but his immediate focus will now be on recovering in time to help Brazil during the tournament.