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Neymar is making expected progress from a calf injury, Brazil doctors hope he will feature at the 2026 World Cup, though his availability for the opening match remains uncertain
Neymar with the Brazil football team for 2026 FIFA World Cup (AP)
Brazil have received an encouraging boost ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, with star forward Neymar making positive progress in his recovery from a calf injury that had cast doubt over his availability for the opening stages of the tournament.
The 34-year-old underwent an MRI scan on Monday, and the results reportedly showed that his rehabilitation is progressing as expected. Brazil’s medical staff remain hopeful that the country’s all-time leading scorer will be fit enough to contribute during the competition, even if his participation in the opening match is still uncertain.
“He will continue to follow the recovery schedule and fitness programme as planned by the Brazil team medical staff,” the Brazilian Football Confederation said.
A separate update from the federation offered further encouragement.
“The exam showed good progress in his treatment, within expected parameters.
“He will continue the recovery and physical preparation process planned by the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.”
Neymar Injury Latest Update
Neymar suffered a Grade 2 calf muscle tear in mid-May and was initially expected to spend between two and three weeks on the sidelines. The injury has already ruled him out of Brazil’s warm-up victories over Panama and Egypt.
The veteran attacker also missed Monday’s training session at Brazil’s base in New Jersey, instead continuing his recovery programme in the gym while his team-mates trained on the pitch.
Now playing for Santos FC after returning to his boyhood club in 2025, Neymar has endured a difficult run with injuries in recent years. Since suffering a serious knee injury while representing Brazil against Uruguay in 2023, he has struggled to maintain consistent fitness, including an injury-hit spell with Al Hilal.
Despite those concerns, head coach Carlo Ancelotti recently expressed confidence that Neymar would be available either for Brazil’s first or second World Cup fixture and stressed that there is no need to rush his return.
Brazil begin their campaign against Morocco at MetLife Stadium before completing their group-stage schedule against Haiti and Scotland. The five-time world champions are chasing their first World Cup title since 2002, and Neymar’s fitness could play a major role in determining how far they progress.
(With inputs from Agencies)
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten…Read More
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