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In a massive setback for Brazil just days before the FIFA World Cup 2026, Neymar Jr. has suffered a calf injury that could force him to miss the opening match of the tournament.

The Brazilian superstar, who recently returned to the national setup after a long injury layoff, was diagnosed with a grade two calf injury after arriving at Brazil’s training base in Granja Comary near Rio de Janeiro.

According to Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, Neymar is expected to remain sidelined for around two to three weeks, putting serious doubt over his availability for Brazil’s first World Cup fixture.

“The expectation is that he will be sidelined from two to three weeks,” Lasmar said while addressing media on Thursday.

The medical team also confirmed that Neymar underwent several tests immediately after joining the squad and scans later revealed the extent of the injury.

“Neymar arrived at Granja Comary and completed all medical examinations. The tests confirmed a grade two calf injury,” Lasmar added.

Neymar Jr's fitness concerns return once again

The injury has once again raised major concerns around Neymar’s fitness, especially after Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti decided to include him in the World Cup squad despite the forward barely playing international football over the last two years.

Neymar has not represented Brazil since October 2023 after suffering a devastating ACL injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury kept him away from football for several months and heavily disrupted the later phase of his career.

Brazil could still replace Neymar before tournament opener

FIFA rules still allow Brazil to replace Neymar in the final squad before the deadline if the medical team decides he will not recover in time.

Teams are allowed to submit final squad changes until June 1, while emergency replacements can also be made up to one day before their opening fixture.

As things stand, Neymar is likely to miss Brazil’s opening group-stage clash against Morocco on June 13 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Brazil have been placed in a challenging group alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland.

Brazil FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage fixtures

  • Brazil vs Morocco — June 14
  • Brazil vs Haiti — June 20
  • Brazil vs Scotland — June 25

Neymar eyes one final shot at World Cup glory

For Neymar, this World Cup could potentially be the final opportunity to fulfil the biggest dream of his career — winning the FIFA World Cup with Brazil.

The previous edition ended in heartbreak as Brazil crashed out in the quarterfinals after a painful penalty shootout defeat. Despite Neymar scoring in extra time against Croatia, Brazil eventually lost 4-2 on penalties and once again fell short of ending their long wait for World Cup glory.

Now, with age and injuries constantly troubling him over the last few years, FIFA World Cup 2026 may represent Neymar’s final realistic chance to lead Brazil towards another world title.

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