Neymar’s World Cup Nightmare: Will a Calf Injury Ruin Brazil’s Hopes?

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[MyDaily = Reporter Kim Geon-ho] Neymar (Santos) now faces a real risk of missing the World Cup.

GiveMeSport reported on the 29th (Korean time) that medical checks confirmed Neymar suffered a grade-2 muscle injury to his right calf just three weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, putting his hopes of leading Brazil at the tournament in serious jeopardy.

Neymar hasn’t worn the Brazil jersey since October 2023. After returning from injury this season, he finished with six goals and four assists in 15 appearances, earning a dramatic recall from coach Carlo Ancelotti.

With 128 caps and 79 goals for Brazil, Neymar had planned to surpass the national team’s all-time scoring record at this World Cup. Instead, an ill-timed injury has cast doubt over that bid.

Reports say Neymar arrived with the squad carrying the calf issue. The UK Daily Mail says he missed the first training session and underwent medical tests that ran into the early hours.

GiveMeSport noted the injury typically needs two to three weeks to heal, fueling concern about whether he’ll be ready in time. Despite the setback, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has no immediate plans to remove Neymar from the squad. Sources say he will receive treatment over the next few days and is scheduled for additional tests in New Jersey on June 12.

Under FIFA rules, teams may replace injured players up to 24 hours before their opening match. Brazil’s opener is June 14 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The CBF says it will monitor Neymar’s condition up to the last possible moment.

GiveMeSport added that Neymar’s history of injuries at major tournaments makes this situation particularly worrying. He hasn’t played for Brazil since 2023, and in two of the last three World Cups he missed time due to injury.

The outlet cautioned that even if Neymar recovers in time and remains on the roster, there’s no guarantee he will immediately return to peak form — and he might not play at all.

If coach Ancelotti opts to call a replacement, he must choose from the 55-player provisional list submitted to FIFA. Chelsea’s João Pedro is among the leading candidates.

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