Neymar Suffers Muscle Injury and Raises Concerns 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 grade II muscle injury in the calf, according to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). The announcement, made this Thursday, indicates that the player will be out for two to three weeks, which generates uncertainty about his participation in the upcoming matches. The Canarinha doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, explained that Neymar will follow an “intensive treatment” with the national team’s medical staff. Neymar joined the concentration in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, along with other players called up by coach Carlo Ancelotti. After missing the first training session, the player underwent medical examinations. Santos had previously reported an “edema” in the calf, but the CBF decided to conduct its own studies.Lasmar confirmed that the MRI revealed a “grade II muscle injury in the calf.” The doctor added that Neymar will be “under intensive treatment” with the team, expecting a recovery within the mentioned timeframe. This injury casts doubt on Neymar’s participation in the friendlies prior to the World Cup against Panama and Egypt. Furthermore, her presence in Brazil’s debut in Group C of the World Cup against Morocco on June 13 is uncertain. Brazil will then face Haiti and Scotland in the following days of the tournament. Neymar’s call-up by Ancelotti surprised many, as the coach had not called him up since he took office in May 2025. Ancelotti decided to include him after observing his physical improvement and his continuity at Santos.“Grade II muscle injury in the calf”
Rodrigo Lasmar
