Neymar at risk of missing entire World Cup 2026 group stage

Brazilian football icon Neymar is facing a significant risk of missing the entire group stage of the 2026 World Cup due to a lingering calf injury. The star forward has not yet rejoined his teammates in training ahead of Brazil's opening match against Morocco on June 14.

According to Sky Sport, Neymar was absent from Brazil's final training session before the Morocco game, making his participation highly improbable. This absence fuels concerns that coach Ancelotti might be without Neymar for the entirety of the group stage matches. The 34-year-old has been plagued by injuries throughout the year, limiting his ability to play more than two consecutive club matches.

Despite his ongoing treatment for a calf injury sustained while playing for Santos, Neymar was included in Ancelotti's squad for the World Cup. Brazil is scheduled to play Morocco, followed by matches against Haiti on June 20 and Scotland on June 25.

If Neymar is indeed unavailable for the group stage, coach Carlo Ancelotti could face criticism for selecting a player not in peak physical condition, especially given Brazil's depth of talent. The team will need to adapt its strategy and rely on other players to step up in the absence of their star forward.

The situation casts a shadow over Neymar's potential final World Cup appearance, as injuries continue to be a major obstacle in his career. The team's performance in the early stages of the tournament will be closely watched as they navigate these challenges.