Neymar is at risk of missing Brazil's opening game at the World Cup after sustaining a calf injury, it has been revealed. The veteran attacker, who has won 128 caps for his country, has been included in Carlo Ancelotti's squad for this summer's tournament which kicks off in two weeks' time.
Neymar currently plies his trade for Brazilian giants Santos after returning to his homeland last year, and linked up with the national team on Tuesday as they continue their final preparations for the World Cup. Brazil will play two warm-up games before their Group C opener against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey. But Neymar will not feature against either Panama or Egypt, and could also miss the first game of the World Cup, per Brazil's team doctor.
Rodrigo Lasmar revealed Neymar had suffered a grade two calf injury at a press conference, saying: "Neymar underwent all the medical tests, which concluded with an MRI scan revealing a grade two calf injury, not just swelling. He is expected to be cleared in two to three weeks."
Setback for Neymar's World Cup Hopes
The news will come as a bitter blow to Neymar in his bid to play a significant role in the World Cup after being brought back into the international fold. The 34-year-old has not represented the Selecao since 2023 after being plagued by injuries. His inclusion in Ancelotti's squad, which was in doubt prior to the announcement, means the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker could play for his country at a fourth World Cup.
Explaining the decision, which was popular with fans, Ancelotti said: "We spent the entire year analysing Neymar. We realised that in this last period he had continuity and was in good physical condition."
Other Absentees for Brazil
Neymar will not be the only player absent from Brazil's warm-up friendlies, with both Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli set to miss the Panama game due to their participation in the Champions League final. The Arsenal duo will face Neymar's former club, PSG, in Budapest on Saturday with the chance to secure a maiden Champions League triumph for the Gunners, who celebrated winning a first Premier League title in 22 years last weekend.
