Record five-time world champions Brazil have suffered a major setback ahead of their opening match on the World Cup stage. Due to injury, poster boy Neymar will not be able to play in the Seleção’s opener against Morocco tonight. Team coach Carlo Ancelotti himself confirmed the news.
The 34-year-old Neymar has been battling a leg muscle injury for some time and has not yet been able to resume full training with the squad.
Ancelotti stated that Neymar is set to begin training with the squad next week. Consequently, his participation in the second match against Haiti on June 20 remains in doubt. Brazil’s final group-stage match is against Scotland on June 24.
Speaking at a press conference, Ancelotti said, “Neymar is working hard to recover as quickly as possible. I hope he will be able to join the team next week. When we call Neymar up to the squad, it is not just for his unparalleled skills on the pitch; we also consider his experience and the positive influence he has on younger players.”
Neymar has not taken the field in a Brazil jersey since 2023 due to injury. Despite this, he secured a spot in the World Cup squad, edging out forwards like Chelsea’s João Pedro and Tottenham’s Richarlison. This marks the fourth World Cup for Neymar, who holds the record for the most goals scored for the national team (79 goals in 128 matches). However, his absence at the very start of Brazil’s ‘Hexa’ mission will undoubtedly be a cause for concern among Seleção fans.
