Neymar Shows 'Good Progress' in Injury Recovery, Brazil World Cup Hopes Remain

Brazilian football icon Neymar is demonstrating "good progress" in his recovery from a right calf injury that has sidelined him since mid-May, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) reported Monday. The all-time leading scorer for the five-time world champions underwent an MRI in the United States, which yielded results "within the expected parameters." He will continue the recovery and physical preparation plan designed by the Brazilian national team's medical staff, the CBF stated without providing further details. Neymar, 34, last played for his club, Santos, on May 17 in a Brazilian league match and has not featured for the national team since October 2023. His participation in Brazil's World Cup debut against Morocco on Saturday in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is considered unlikely. However, he could potentially be medically cleared for the second group game against Haiti on June 19 in Philadelphia. Brazil concludes its first-phase matches against Scotland on June 24. The former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player did not participate in Monday's training session, instead focusing on recovery work in the gym, as he has in recent days. Brazil's coach, Carlo Ancelotti, expressed confidence on Friday that Neymar might rejoin practice this week. However, the Italian coach has emphasized that he will not rush the recovery of the star player, whose career has been hampered by recurrent injuries in recent seasons. Meanwhile, at the training facilities in Morristown, New Jersey, the Seleção welcomed its latest addition, goalkeeper Ederson. The Atalanta midfielder replaced defender Wesley of Roma, who sustained an injury during Saturday's friendly against Egypt, a 2-1 victory for Brazil, which was the team's final match before the World Cup opener.