Brazil forward Neymar is facing a race against time to be fit for his country’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a calf injury.
- +World Cup: Neymar doubtful for Brazil’s opener after injury blow
The 34-year-old has been ruled out for between two and three weeks following medical tests that confirmed a muscle problem in his right calf.
The 34-year-old has been ruled out for between two and three weeks following medical tests that confirmed a muscle problem in his right calf.
The injury means Neymar will miss Brazil’s upcoming friendly matches against Panama on Sunday and Egypt on June 6 in Cleveland, Ohio.
According to reports in Brazil, the issue had already forced Neymar to miss training with the national team earlier this week before scans revealed the extent of the problem.
The timing comes as a major concern for Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, who recently recalled Neymar to the squad after months of injury setbacks and fitness struggles.
There are now growing doubts over whether the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star will recover in time for Brazil’s World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13.
Initially, Brazilian media described the problem as a minor calf issue. However, more recent updates suggest the injury could be more serious than first feared, with Neymar now undergoing a recovery programme supervised by Brazil’s medical staff.
Despite the concerns, Neymar attempted to reassure fans while speaking briefly to reporters this week, insisting there was no reason for panic ahead of the tournament.
Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco before later facing Haiti and Scotland in Group C.
