Ancelotti confirms Neymar ruled out of Brazil’s World Cup opener
The 34-year-old record goalscorer is expected to resume training next week, with his availability for the match against Haiti remaining doubtful.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar will miss the team’s opening World Cup match against Morocco on Saturday due to a calf injury. The 34-year-old forward has not returned to full training and is expected to resume squad training next week, leaving his availability for the second match against Haiti on 20 June doubtful.
Neymar, Brazil's record goalscorer, has not played for the national side since 2023. Ancelotti stated that Neymar is working hard to recover and will rejoin the group next week. The manager highlighted Neymar's technical quality, experience, and role as an example for young players, noting that his selection ahead of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro and Tottenham forward Richarlison was based on these attributes.
The Santos forward is Brazil's record goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 caps, surpassing Pele's total of 77. This could be Neymar's fourth World Cup appearance, having previously represented Brazil in 2014, 2018, and 2022.
Brazil conclude their group campaign against Scotland on 24 June. The uncertainty surrounding Neymar's fitness adds a layer of complexity to Ancelotti's tactical preparations for the opening fixture.
While the manager remains optimistic about the forward's recovery, the immediate absence leaves a gap in Brazil's attacking options for the crucial first match of the tournament.
