Neymar expected fit for 2026 World Cup after minor calf scare

Neymar is expected to join Brazil’s training camp next week and be fit for the 2026 World Cup after a minor calf problem, according to guidance from Santos’ medical staff on Wednesday. The 34-year-old forward, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, was named to the squad on Monday. The tournament begins on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Santos’ head of medical services Rodrigo Zogaib said the player has a calf oedema and, based on the club’s plan, should be ready to link up with the national team next week. The issue is not expected to limit his participation at the finals.

Neymar has not featured for Brazil since 2023 after an extended layoff. He returned to boyhood club Santos last year following an injury-hit stint with Saudi side Al-Hilal, and his form and availability have remained under scrutiny.

The forward has 79 goals in 128 internationals and is set for a fourth World Cup as Brazil target a record-extending sixth title. He missed Santos’s 2-2 home draw with San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana on Wednesday while he recovers.

Brazil plan for Neymar’s return

Medical assessment at Santos

Club staff described the problem as a minor calf oedema rather than a tear, indicating short-term management and conditioning work. Zogaib said the plan anticipates the player being fit to join the national setup next week.

Brazil’s camp is expected to monitor his workload closely on arrival, with the aim of building minutes ahead of the group stage. There is no official timeline yet for a first match appearance.

Selection context under Ancelotti

Much of the build-up to the squad announcement focused on head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s decision on whether to recall Neymar after his long absence. The Italian took charge of Brazil last year and had not previously brought the forward back into the fold.

His inclusion on Monday signals a defined role if fitness permits. The staff’s immediate priority is to assess readiness in camp and integrate him into sessions before the opening match.

Schedule and Group C outlook

Warm-up fixtures before kickoff

Brazil are scheduled to play warm-up matches against Panama on May 31 and Egypt in the lead-up to the tournament. The friendlies provide opportunities to manage minutes for players returning from injury.

Opponents and opener

Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey. They then face Haiti and Scotland to complete Group C.

Brazil will track Neymar’s recovery through next week’s camp and the warm-up fixtures. Barring setbacks, he remains on course to be available when the World Cup begins.