Will Neymar Play FIFA World Cup 2026? Brazil Star Doubtful For Group Stage But...

Last Updated:June 16, 2026, 07:58 IST

Brazil star Neymar remains sidelined with a calf injury, may miss group games vs Haiti and Scotland, as Brazil target his return for knockouts after a 1-1 draw with Morocco.

Brazil’s plans for Neymar at the FIFA World Cup remain uncertain after the veteran forward underwent additional medical examinations on his injured right calf, raising fresh concerns about when he will finally make his first appearance at the tournament.

The 34-year-old has not taken part in a full training session since Brazil assembled for their World Cup preparations in Morristown, New Jersey. While there had been hopes he would rejoin his team-mates on the training pitch this week, Neymar instead visited a medical clinic for further tests. The Brazilian Football Confederation has yet to release the results.

Neymar has been sidelined since suffering a grade-two calf injury while playing for Santos on May 17. Since then, he has focused on rehabilitation work and gym sessions, with Brazil’s medical staff carefully monitoring his recovery. Although his workload has gradually increased, he remains short of full fitness and has not yet returned to full team training.

When Will Neymar Play?

Reports suggest Brazil’s coaching and medical teams are prioritising Neymar’s availability for the knockout rounds rather than rushing him back during the group stage. The concern is that an early return could aggravate the injury and potentially end his tournament.

As a result, Neymar is expected to miss Brazil’s upcoming clash against Haiti and could also remain unavailable for the team’s final group-stage match against Scotland.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti recently emphasised the importance of the experienced playmaker to the squad.

“Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible," Ancelotti said. “When we called up Neymar, we did it not just because of his technical quality, which is undeniable, but also because of his experience. He could represent an example for the younger players on the team."

Debate around Neymar’s absence has intensified following Brazil’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in their tournament opener, a match in which the team struggled to create chances in attack.

Away from football, however, Neymar received positive personal news. He and his partner, Bruna Biancardi, announced that they are expecting their third daughter, adding a bright moment amid the uncertainty surrounding his FIFA World Cup campaign.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten...Read More

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