Neymar Ruled Out of Brazil's World Cup Opener With Calf Injury

Neymar will be absent for Brazil's opening match in the 2026 World Cup against Morocco, as confirmed by head coach Carlo Ancelotti. The Brazilian talisman is still recovering from a calf injury, with Ancelotti now anticipating his return to full training sometime next week.

The Italian manager stated that Neymar is working diligently to speed up his recovery process. The forward was initially expected to be available sooner, but the injury, a grade II tear in his right calf sustained on May 17, has proven more persistent. He has been focusing on gym work rather than participating in on-field sessions this week.

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Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible.

This setback means Neymar will miss Brazil's first Group C game at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Hopes are now pinned on his availability for the second group match against Haiti in Philadelphia on June 19. Ancelotti defended his decision to include Neymar in the squad despite his fitness concerns, citing the player's undeniable technical skill, invaluable experience, and role as a positive example for younger teammates.

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When we called up Neymar, we called him not only for his technical quality, which is indisputable; but also for his experience and for the example he can represent for the young players we have in this group.