New Jersey Fans' Verdict: Neymar In, Even Injured, for Brazil's World Cup Run

In Newark, New Jersey, Brazilian fans attending the 2026 World Cup are united in their belief that Neymar must be part of the squad for his final tournament, regardless of his fitness. The star player has been a central figure in media coverage during the Seleção's preparation for their opening match against Morocco at the MetLife Stadium.

Carlo Ancelotti's selection of Neymar, who has faced persistent physical issues for three years and is currently recovering from a muscle injury, sparked debate. However, outside the MetLife Stadium, the 'verdeamarela' fanbase expressed no doubt about his necessity. "He is the best, even if he is injured," declared Fernando Pixote, a member of the 'Movimiento Verdeamarelo' who traveled from southern Brazil to support the team.

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He is the best player in Brazilian football today, even if he is injured.

Fans gathered hours before the match to create an 'esquenta,' a pre-event party featuring drums and chants. Rodrigo Mendes, a 35-year-old official, emphasized Neymar's game-changing potential, stating, "Neymar playing 15 or 20 minutes can change a match. He is essential in this squad." Mendes proudly displayed his phone's wallpaper, a photo of himself with the player.

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Neymar playing 15 or 20 minutes can change a match. He is essential in this squad.

Even Brazilians living abroad strongly advocate for the player, who is the national team's all-time leading scorer. Ariadne Grecco, a 26-year-old physiotherapist from Boston, attended the game with her husband. She believes Neymar's "presence is extremely necessary, even if he is injured. The whole country is waiting for him; even for a few minutes, he will make a difference."

Neymar suffered a grade II muscle injury in his right calf on May 17 during a Brasileirão match. Initially diagnosed as an edema by Santos, further tests by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) revealed a more severe issue, with an estimated recovery time of two to three weeks. Consequently, he is set to miss the debut against Morocco and is anticipated to be available for the second group match against Haiti on June 19 in Philadelphia.

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He has a lot of presence. He is extremely necessary, even if he is injured. The whole country is waiting for him; even for a few minutes, he will make a difference.