Brazil handed worrying Neymar fitness update ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Morocco
Brazil have reportedly received a worrying injury update regarding superstar forward Neymar ahead of their FIFA World Cup group-stage clash with Morocco. The South American giants are set to face Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland in Group C of the tournament this summer.
A report from Foot Mercato states that Neymar has not yet returned to full team training following his latest injury. He is reportedly expected to miss Brazil’s opening match against Morocco, with his availability for the subsequent fixtures against Haiti and Scotland also in doubt.
Neymar sustained a grade two calf muscle injury during Santos FC’s match against Coritiba on May 17, a game widely noted for his mistaken substitution.
The 34-year-old has not featured for club or country since the incident, with the initial medical assessment suggesting a recovery timeline of approximately two to three weeks.
The decision of coach Carlo Ancelotti to include the veteran in Brazil national football team’s FIFA World Cup squad was met with widespread joy in the country, but also skepticism in some quarters. In the immediate aftermath of his injury, Ancelotti publicly stated that the forward would not be replaced in the squad and would still be part of the tournament.
At the very least, Brazil will have to navigate their opener against Morocco without their talismanic number 10. They could be without him for the entirety of the group stage, a scenario no one wants to see.
Can Neymar make a difference for Brazil at the FIFA World Cup?
Brazil are set to pursue a sixth FIFA World Cup title in North America this summer following a run of 24 years without a triumph. The Selecao have taken Neymar to the Mundial, hoping that their record goalscorer achieved the biggest dream of his career this time around.
The former Barcelona player has enjoyed a stellar career but has faced a difficult few years due to recurring injury problems. His form for Santos FC in the months leading up to the tournament — scoring six goals and providing four assists in 15 appearances — earned him a call-up to the squad.
