Ancelotti could drop Neymar from Brazil’s World Cup squad

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti could be forced to leave Neymar Jr out of the country’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup if the forward fails to recover fully from his latest injury setback.

Neymar is currently battling a grade two calf injury, which has become a major concern for the Brazilian national team ahead of their upcoming preparatory matches.

The Santos star recently reported to Brazil’s training camp, where he underwent a series of medical examinations conducted by the team’s doctors.

Reports claim the Brazilian Football Confederation, CBF, even closed off a local diagnostic centre to ensure privacy during Neymar’s scans and treatment.

Although Santos had initially declared the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain attacker fit enough to return, Brazil’s medical staff carried out fresh tests that reportedly confirmed the seriousness of the muscle injury.

Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed on Thursday that Neymar underwent an MRI scan after arriving at the camp, and the results showed a grade two muscle tear.

According to Lasmar, the 34-year-old is currently receiving treatment and rehabilitation, with hopes that he could return to action within two to three weeks if recovery goes as planned.

However, the situation has created uncertainty over Neymar’s role in Ancelotti’s plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The Italian manager, who recently took charge of the Selecao, is believed to be monitoring the forward’s fitness closely before making any final decisions on his squad.

Neymar has struggled with injuries in recent years, missing several important matches for both club and country. Despite his fitness problems, he remains one of Brazil’s most experienced and influential players.

Many Brazilian fans will be hoping the forward recovers quickly, as the team prepares for another attempt to win the World Cup title.