Doubts over Neymar’s World Cup debut continued on Monday after the Brazilian forward underwent further tests on his injured right leg.
There was still hope that Neymar could return to training on Monday, but the Santos player did not join his teammates and instead went to a clinic for tests on his right calf. The Brazilian Football Federation did not immediately announce the results of the tests.
The 34-year-old Neymar is sidelined during his fourth World Cup since he was injured against Santos in Brazil on May 17.
Brazil plays Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday. Neymar has yet to participate in full training since the five-time world champion began his World Cup preparations in Morristown, New Jersey.
Brazilian media said Brazil’s medical staff hoped he would be fully fit again for the knockout stages.
Neymar’s potential return took on greater significance following Brazil’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Morocco in the teams’ World Cup opener on Saturday.
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Neymar still brought some star power to the match at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. He was seen on the sidelines before kickoff greeting celebrities including rapper Travis Scott and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady.
Brazil’s struggles in attack against Morocco immediately led to calls for a more experienced playmaker like Neymar on the pitch.
There was widespread debate in Brazil over whether Neymar, whose first World Cup came on home soil in 2014, should have been called up for the World Cup by new coach Carlo Ancelotti. Some believe the veteran can still help Brazil, but others say Neymar is past his best years and has taken a spot away from a younger player.
Published on June 16, 2026
