Neymar suffers muscle injury: Out for 2-3 weeks with Brazil, will he make it to the World Cup?

Neymar Suffers Muscle Injury and Raises Alarms for the 2026 World Cup

Teresópolis, Brazil – Brazilian star Neymar, concentrated with the national team for the 2026 World Cup, has been diagnosed with a muscle injury that will keep him off the field for several weeks. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed this Thursday that the player suffers from a grade II calf injury. The announcement, made by the national team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, details that Neymar will undergo “intensive treatment” during the coming weeks. The injury occurred after his arrival at the concentration in Teresópolis, where he met with the rest of those called up by coach Carlo Ancelotti. Neymar, who joined the concentration on Wednesday, was absent from the first training session and underwent medical examinations. The diagnosis revealed the severity of the injury, which was initially thought to be just an “edema”, according to previous reports from Santos.

“He will continue under intensive treatment with us and will be released in two to three weeks. That is the expectation,” said Dr. Lasmar.

Rodrigo Lasmar, doctor for the Brazilian national team

This injury casts doubt on Neymar’s participation in Brazil’s upcoming friendlies before the World Cup, against Panama and Egypt. Furthermore, his presence in the tournament debut, against Morocco on June 13, is uncertain.

• Friendlies: Neymar will miss the matches against Panama and Egypt.
• World Cup Debut: He is doubtful for the match against Morocco.
• Group Stage: Brazil will face Haiti and Scotland after the first match.

Neymar’s call-up by Ancelotti was a surprise, as the Italian coach had not previously called him up. However, his recent physical progress and continuity with Santos convinced the coach to include him in the list.