Neymar Jr. Returns to the Field in Teresópolis While Recovering for the 2026 World Cup
TERESÓPOLIS, Brazil – Brazilian star Neymar Jr. has returned to the pitch at Granja Comary, the training center of the Brazilian national team, as he progresses in his recovery from a right calf muscle injury, with his sights set on the 2026 World Cup.
The forward, who plays for Santos, was seen smiling and interacting with the coaching staff led by Italian Carlo Ancelotti, although he did not participate in training with the rest of the team.
Images provided by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) show Neymar making smooth movements with sneakers. This is his first appearance on the field since he joined Brazil’s concentration last Wednesday.
Neymar is undergoing intensive treatment supervised by the national team doctors in the hope of being ready for the World Cup debut against Morocco, scheduled for June 13 in New Jersey.
According to reports, the player’s recovery process includes physiotherapy and gym sessions. This Friday, the player only did light exercises and observed his teammates’ training.
The CBF announced on Thursday that Neymar will be inactive for two to three weeks due to a grade II muscle injury. This diagnosis is more serious than the edema initially reported by Santos.
The all-time top scorer for the Brazilian national team will miss the preparatory friendlies against Panama and Egypt, but remains part of the squad for what would be his fourth World Cup.
During the session, Neymar was also seen conversing with Rodrigo Caetano, coordinator of the Brazilian men’s national teams, as the team intensifies its preparation for the tournament.
Brazil will compete in the 2026 World Cup under the direction of Carlo Ancelotti, who recently took over the leadership of the national team with the aim of bringing the Canarinha back to the top of world football.
