Neymar has been included in Brazil's 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, despite suffering a minor calf injury. The 34-year-old forward is expected to recover in time to join the national team's training camp next week, according to Santos' head of medical services Rodrigo Zogaib.
Zogaib confirmed that Neymar has an oedema in his calf, but said the player's progress should allow him to be fit for the start of preparations. Neymar missed Santos' 2-2 draw with San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana on Wednesday as a result of the injury.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti opted to include the country's all-time leading scorer despite concerns over his fitness and form. Neymar, who has not played for Brazil since 2023, has struggled with injuries since his move to Saudi club Al-Hilal and has yet to regain his best form since returning to boyhood club Santos last year. This will be his fourth World Cup appearance.
Brazil will open their Group C campaign against Morocco on 13 June in New Jersey, followed by clashes with Haiti and Scotland. They are also scheduled to play warm-up matches against Panama on 31 May and Egypt before the tournament begins.
Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002 and have failed to progress beyond the quarter-finals in the last two editions. In 2018 they were eliminated by Belgium, and in 2022 they suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Croatia.
