Neymar is once again causing anxiety for the Brazilian national team.

GD&TĐ - Striker Neymar has suffered a new injury just after being called up to the Brazilian national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Previous consecutive injuries have prevented Neymar from playing for the Brazilian national team since their 0-2 defeat to Uruguay in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America in October 2023.

However, his persistent efforts helped the 34-year-old striker earn a place in the Brazilian squad for the 2026 World Cup under coach Carlo Ancelotti.

That joy quickly turned into worry when the former PSG striker suffered a calf injury and was unable to participate in the match between Santos and San Lorenzo on May 21st ( Hanoi time).

"Neymar has a minor calf injury with some muscle swelling. I think he will recover in time to join the Brazilian national team next week," said Santos doctor Rodrigo Zogaib.

Neymar has not played for the Brazilian national team since October 2023.

The latest incident has further fueled controversy surrounding coach Carlo Ancelotti's decision to call up Neymar. In fact, his form hasn't been consistently good since returning to Santos.

What drew even more attention from the Brazilian public was that while Neymar was called up, many notable names such as Joao Pedro, Richarlison, Joelinton, and Rodrygo were absent from the 2026 World Cup squad.

However, the Italian coach defended his choice. Coach Ancelotti argued that Neymar's experience is what Brazil needs in a major tournament like the World Cup.

“We have been evaluating Neymar throughout the season. He has really improved recently in terms of physical condition. He is an important player and will play a crucial role at the World Cup,” said coach Carlo Ancelotti.

However, the former Real Madrid manager also emphasized that Neymar does not have any special privileges in the national team. He will have to compete and accept any role like the other 25 players in the Brazilian squad.

"Neymar will have the same responsibilities as the other 25 players. He will have the opportunity to play or not play, to sit on the bench or to be brought on from the bench," coach Ancelotti affirmed.

In the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the Brazilian team was placed in Group C along with opponents Scotland, Haiti, and Morocco.

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/neymar-lai-khien-tuyen-brazil-thap-thom-post778747.html