Neymar Junior’s inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America has been complicated by a recent calf injury. The star forward sustained the injury two weeks prior to the tournament’s commencement, raising concerns about his potential playing time.
Neymar had been actively playing for Santos in the weeks leading up to his selection, striving to impress Ancelotti enough for a spot in the 26-man roster. However, a recent match against Coritiba proved detrimental, as the 34-year-old picked up a calf injury.
While Santos initially reported no injury, subsequent medical assessments conducted with the Brazilian national team doctors confirmed a grade two calf injury, as stated by the Brazil Football Federation and reported by Marca.
“Yesterday, Neymar underwent all medical tests, culminating in an MRI that revealed a grade two calf injury. Recovery is expected within two to three weeks.”
Neymar to Miss Brazil’s Opening 2026 World Cup Fixture
Although the injury is not severe enough to rule Neymar out of the entire 2026 World Cup, a three-week recovery period will force him to miss Brazil’s opening match against Morocco, scheduled for June 13th in New Jersey. He is anticipated to be fit to participate in Brazil’s second game against Haiti, taking place six days later.
This injury presents a setback for the former Barcelona player as he enters the World Cup. It could also disrupt Ancelotti’s tactical plans for the tournament, particularly if Neymar was envisioned as a starting player.
