Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that star striker Neymar will not be available for the team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C opener against Morocco on Saturday.
The 34-year-old suffered a calf injury in mid-May and did not train with the rest of the team at the team’s base in Manhattan.
«Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible,» Ancelotti said.
«We called him up not only because of his football qualities, which are undeniable, but also because of the experience and example he can give to the younger players in the group.»
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Neymar, who now plays for Santos, has had an injury-marred spell and has not represented Brazil since 2023. Fitness issues have also limited his involvement at club level this year, with the forward playing in just half of Santos’ games in domestic and continental competitions.
A veteran of Brazil’s last three World Cup campaigns, Neymar’s inclusion in the squad received some attention given his recent injury record. However, his experience and status as the country’s top scorer make him a key figure in Ancelotti’s plans as Brazil look for a sixth World Cup title.
– Import from AFP
Published on June 13, 2026
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