Neymar Recovery Gains Momentum As Brazil Star Eyes World Cup Return

Brazil have received encouraging news regarding Neymar’s fitness after fresh medical examinations revealed the forward is making strong progress in his recovery from a calf injury.

The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed on Tuesday that the latest MRI scan showed positive developments, increasing hopes that the country’s all-time leading goalscorer could return in time for the start of the FIFA World Cup.

Neymar was initially ruled out for between two and three weeks after suffering a grade-two muscle tear last month, raising concerns over his availability for Brazil’s opening group match against Morocco on 13 June.

In a brief medical update, the federation stated: “The examination showed good progress in his treatment within expected parameters. He will continue the recovery and physical preparation programme established by the national team’s medical staff.”

The 34-year-old has already missed Brazil’s two pre-tournament friendlies, including victories over Panama and Egypt, as he continues his rehabilitation.

Neymar’s latest injury setback is another chapter in a challenging period for the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star. Since suffering a serious knee injury while representing Brazil against Uruguay in October 2023, he has endured a series of fitness problems, including an injury-hit spell in Saudi Arabia and recurring issues following his return to Santos.

Despite those struggles, Neymar remains a central figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad. With 79 goals in 128 international appearances, he is Brazil’s record goalscorer and is aiming to feature in his fourth World Cup after appearances in 2014, 2018 and 2022.

Brazil will begin their campaign against Morocco before facing Scotland and Haiti in the remaining group fixtures.