Neymar injury threatens Brazil forward’s World Cup as scans needed on calf | World Cup 2026 News
Neymar’s Health Threatens Brazil’s World Cup Plans
Published May 28, 2026
Brazil’s World Cup preparations faced a setback as Neymar missed the national team’s first training session due to injury concerns. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, has not played since 2023, and his participation in the upcoming tournament is now uncertain.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) reported that Neymar is undergoing evaluation for an injury to his right calf. He was not present at the team’s training camp in Granja Comary and was sent to a private clinic in Teresopolis for imaging tests.
In an official statement, the CBF indicated that no further updates would be provided until the team’s medical staff completes their assessments. Neymar’s absence quickly became the focal point of discussion on the second day of Brazil’s training camp.
The team plans to conduct three additional training sessions at Granja Comary ahead of a friendly against Panama at the Maracana on Sunday. Manager Carlo Ancelotti will already be without three players for this match: defenders Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos, as well as forward Gabriel Martinelli, who are participating in the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday.
Neymar’s recall to the squad last week sparked enthusiasm, as he had been absent from Ancelotti’s plans during the coach’s inaugural year. With 79 goals in 128 appearances, Neymar’s return is significant, especially given the scrutiny regarding his fitness and performance after a challenging period at Santos.
The timing of Neymar’s injury is critical. Following the friendly against Panama, Brazil will face Egypt in Cleveland before kicking off their World Cup campaign against African champions Morocco in New Jersey on June 13. Brazil and Morocco are part of Group C, which also includes Haiti and Scotland.
Ancelotti has emphasized that Neymar’s reputation will not guarantee him a place on the team. He reiterated earlier this month that selection would be based on the player’s fitness and form rather than sentiment.
As the CBF awaits medical results, Brazil’s fans remain hopeful that their star player will be ready to compete next month.
