Brazil's preparations for the upcoming World Cup have been thrown into uncertainty as star forward Neymar missed the national team's first training session due to a calf injury. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that the 34-year-old player was sent to a private clinic in Teresopolis for imaging tests, leaving his participation in the tournament in jeopardy.
Neymar, who holds the record as Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, has not played for the national team since 2023. His recent recall to the squad had generated considerable excitement, especially given his absence from manager Carlo Ancelotti's plans during the past year. However, concerns about his fitness and form have persisted, particularly following a challenging period at Santos.
The CBF stated that no additional information would be provided until the medical staff completes their assessments. Neymar's injury has quickly become a focal point on the second day of Brazil's training camp for the 2026 World Cup, which is set to begin next month.
Brazil is scheduled to conduct three more training sessions at their Granja Comary facility before facing Panama in a friendly match at the Maracana on Sunday. Ancelotti is already dealing with absences, as defenders Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos, along with forward Gabriel Martinelli, are occupied with the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday.
The timing of Neymar's injury is particularly critical, as Brazil will also play Egypt in Cleveland before opening their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey. Brazil and Morocco are grouped with Haiti and Scotland in Group C.
Despite Neymar's illustrious career, Ancelotti has made it clear that past achievements will not guarantee him a spot in the squad. The coach emphasized that selection will be based solely on fitness and performance, stating earlier this month that Neymar would not receive any special treatment.
As the team awaits the results of Neymar's medical evaluations, the Brazilian squad faces mounting pressure to prepare effectively for the World Cup, with their most recognizable player’s status hanging in the balance.
