Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered an early setback after superstar forward Neymar Jr. missed the team’s opening training session due to injury concerns.
The Santos FC attacker was absent from Brazil’s first training session on Wednesday, May 28, as the national team began its build-up for the tournament. Neymar is currently recovering from a right calf injury, raising doubts over his availability for Brazil’s opening World Cup match against Morocco.
While Neymar was the only injury-related absentee, Brazil also trained without several key players, including Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Gabriel Martinelli.
The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed that Neymar has been undergoing rehabilitation and has already missed three club and international matches leading into the camp.
Also Read: Neymar Jr. Becomes Brazil’s All time Top Goal scorer
His fitness issues are also expected to rule him out of Brazil’s pre-World Cup friendly against Panama on Sunday, May 31, with further concerns ahead of their clash with Egypt on June 5.
Despite the setback, Neymar was surprisingly included in Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad, highlighting the coach’s belief in his recovery and experience.
Brazil has been drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland as they chase a record-extending World Cup triumph.
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written by @enock katamba
- Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.
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