“Neymar called up for the 2026 World Cup despite knee injury.”

Neymar is out of Brazil’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup against Morocco, a decision that has surprised fans and experts alike and raised doubts about the star’s immediate future in the tournament. The absence of the Brazilian forward, who recently returned to the squad after a long absence, threatens Brazil’s aspirations for the coveted sixth championship and reignites the debate about the national team’s reliance on its biggest talent.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti included Neymar in the final list of 26 players for the World Cup, despite the 34-year-old still not being fully recovered from the serious injuries he sustained in 2023. The drama began last October when Neymar surpassed Pelé as Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, only to tear the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee in the following match during a qualifying game against Uruguay. Since then, he has not worn the Brazil jersey again, which has heightened expectations surrounding his return to the biggest stage in world football.

O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO

I’m sorry, but it seems there was no text provided for translation. Please provide the content you would like me to translate, and I’ll be happy to assist you.

The presence of Neymar in New Jersey for the opening match against Morocco next Saturday was initially considered possible, but an official source from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) revealed that the forward is still dealing with a calf injury. “The examination showed good progress in the treatment, within the expected parameters. He will continue the recovery and physical preparation process planned by the medical department of the national team,” the CBF stated in a communiqué, emphasizing that the priority is to ensure the player’s return in full condition.

This news has an immediate impact on Brazil’s ambitions. Neymar’s absence from the two friendly matches against Panama and Egypt had already fueled speculation about his physical condition, and it is now confirmed that the number 10 jersey will not be available for the crucial clash against Morocco. This match is of great importance, not only because it marks the start of Brazil’s campaign but also because it pits two teams viewed as contenders to advance to the next stage against each other.

Neymar himself, in recent statements, admitted that he is doing everything to recover as quickly as possible, but he urged caution: “I am working every day, feeling improvements, but it is necessary to respect the recovery time. I want to return when I am 100% to help Brazil win the title,” said the forward, showing ambition but also awareness of the risks of a hasty return.

Internally, Ancelotti and the coaching staff now face the challenge of reinventing the attack without the main offensive reference. The coach has already assured that he will not take unnecessary risks with Neymar. “It is a medical decision; we will not rush anything. The important thing is to have all players available in decisive moments,” said the Italian coach, reinforcing the idea that the star’s return will only happen when there are total guarantees of recovery.

The most likely scenario is that Neymar will miss the first match and target a return for the second round of Group C, against Haiti, scheduled for June 20 in Philadelphia. This plan allows him an additional week of specific training, increasing the chances of a strong comeback and avoiding setbacks that could jeopardize the rest of the tournament.

The absence of the former PSG and Barcelona player shifts all attention to the remaining members of the Brazilian attack, who will have to take center stage in New Jersey. Brazil’s performance without Neymar will be scrutinized by fans and opponents alike, at a time when the pressure on the national team is at its peak and expectations are high.

If Neymar recovers in time for the second match, he could still be crucial in the group stage and, especially, in the knockout rounds, where his experience and quality are internationally recognized. For now, Brazil takes the field without its biggest symbol, in a World Cup that could be Neymar’s last in his career. The entire country eagerly awaits the return of the star, while the national team tries to prove that it can be a title contender, even without its greatest star.

NOW YOU CAN FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – HERE