BREAKING: NEYMAR INJURED AGAIN AFTER WORLD CUP CALL-UP, FACES TWO-THREE WEEKS OUT
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By ‘Sefiu Ajape
Brazil forward Neymar Jr. has suffered another injury setback ahead of the World Cup after medical tests confirmed a muscle problem that could sideline him for up to three weeks.
The latest development has thrown Neymar’s participation in Brazil’s opening World Cup fixture against Morocco into serious doubt, just days after his inclusion in the squad generated widespread debate among football fans and pundits.
Neymar had gone viral after being named in Brazil’s World Cup squad ahead of players such as João Pedro and other notable omissions.
However, concerns over the forward’s fitness have now resurfaced following the fresh injury blow.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development in a post on X on Thursday.
“BREAKING: Neymar Jr suffers a new injury and will be out for 2/3 weeks, tests have confirmed,” Romano detailed. “Ney will miss the friendly games before the World Cup and could miss opening game against Morocco.”
According to Brazilian football reporter Cahe Mota, the former Santos FC forward is dealing with a “grade 2” calf injury, making his availability for Brazil’s tournament opener increasingly unlikely.
“Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar, CBF doctor, confirms grade 2 injury in Neymar’s calf and reports that the player will be out of action for two to three weeks,” Mota noted in a May 28 post on X. “Diagnosis rules the striker out of the two friendlies and practically also from the debut against Morocco, depending on his progress.”
Despite concerns surrounding Neymar’s current fitness and form, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti had earlier defended the decision to include the experienced forward in the squad.
“He has improved his fitness,” Ancelotti said after unveiling the squad on May 18, according to ESPN. “He will be an important player in this World Cup. He has experience in this kind of competition, the love of our group; he can create a better environment in this group.”
The Italian tactician also stressed that Neymar’s selection was based on his overall value to the squad rather than a reduced supporting role.
“We chose Neymar not because we think he’ll be a good substitute. We chose Neymar because we believe he can help the team, whether it’s for one minute, five minutes, 90 minutes, or even taking a penalty.”
However, reports suggest Brazil’s medical team is taking a cautious approach regarding the player’s recovery process ahead of the tournament.
ESPN’s Adriana Garcia reported that Neymar’s injury is “not minor” despite the player attempting to downplay the issue publicly.
“Despite Neymar’s optimism, Brazil’s medical staff is taking a cautious approach to the player’s condition and has drawn up a specific program for him,” Garcia wrote.
“Sources told ESPN that the swelling in Neymar’s right calf is not minor and that the required recovery time may be longer than initially stated by Santos. Hence, it’s unlikely that Neymar will be fit to play in the warm-up games against Panama and Egypt, on May 31 and June 5, respectively.”
With the World Cup fast approaching, Brazil will now wait anxiously for Neymar’s recovery, hoping the experienced forward can regain fitness in time to feature during the competition.
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