With Neymar injured, will the Brazilian national team make a U-turn?

(NLĐO) - Having just been called up to the Brazilian national team by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup, striker Neymar has suffered another injury, facing the risk of having his plans reversed.

This injury prevented the 34-year-old striker from playing in Santos FC's match against San Lorenzo on May 21st. He will also miss upcoming matches, but will return before the World Cup, as confirmed by Santos FC's doctor, Rodrigo Zogaib.

He said Neymar only suffered minor swelling and is likely to recover in time to rejoin the team: “Neymar has a minor calf injury but is progressing well. He is scheduled to be fit enough to join the national team next week,” ESPN quoted Dr. Zogaib as saying.

According to ESPN, Neymar is being treated at Santos' Rei Pelé training center with his personal staff and is being closely monitored by doctors from the Brazilian Football Confederation.

This incident has raised concerns among Ancelotti's coaching staff as they announce the final squad list, fearing that Neymar's injury could disrupt the original training schedule and his availability for the friendly against Panama on May 31st. A final decision is expected on May 27th once the medical examination is complete.

Previously, coach Ancelotti had called Neymar up to the national team, causing much controversy as the former Barcelona and PSG star had not yet regained his form after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2023. Meanwhile, players such as João Pedro, Richarlison, Joelinton, and Rodrygo were all left out.

Nevertheless, coach Ancelotti still places his trust in Neymar's experience. The Italian coach emphasized that the striker has an important role at the 2026 World Cup and will compete for a place like any other player in the Brazilian squad.

At the 2026 World Cup, Brazil is in Group C along with Scotland, Haiti, and Morocco. Ancelotti's team will play their opening match against Morocco on June 13th.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/neymar-chan-thuong-tuyen-brazil-quay-xe-196260522114538243.htm