Brazilian football star Neymar (34, Santos), who was aiming for his fourth career World Cup appearance, has hit a snag in his plans. His participation in Brazil's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America has become uncertain due to a calf injury.
Reuters and other foreign media reported on the 28th (local time) that Brazil national team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told reporters, "Neymar, who injured his right calf, was diagnosed with a grade 2 muscle strain rather than simple swelling following a detailed examination," adding, "Recovery is expected to take about 2 to 3 weeks."
Neymar was named to Brazil's squad for the 2026 North American World Cup, which kicks off in June. Having played in every tournament since the 2014 Brazil World Cup, he was preparing for his fourth World Cup appearance.
However, he sustained the right calf injury after a league match against Coritiba just before the national team roster announcement. Despite this, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti vouched for his fitness and selected him, but the team doctor's diagnosis now suggests he could be sidelined for up to three weeks.
As a result, Neymar may miss not only Brazil's two friendly matches before the North American World Cup opens, but also the team's first match in the World Cup group stage.
Brazil will face Panama in a friendly at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on June 1, followed by a final tune-up match against Egypt in Cleveland, USA, on June 7.
The team will then begin its North American World Cup group stage campaign against Morocco in New Jersey, USA, on June 14.
Brazil has been drawn into Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland.
The deadline for submitting the final World Cup roster is June 1 local time.
According to tournament regulations, replacements can still be made from the preliminary roster (up to 55 players) until one day before the first match begins.
