Neymar will not play against Haiti or Scotland due to a calf injury. Experts suggest his absence could benefit Brazil. The team is taking a cautious approach to his recovery.
Brazil's national team will play its next World Cup match without Neymar, who remains sidelined by a calf injury. The forward, currently with Santos, is not expected to recover in time for the upcoming group stage games against Haiti and Scotland. This absence, which initially appeared to be a setback, is now being viewed by some as a potential advantage for the squad.
According to UOL Esporte, the coaching staff, led by Carlo Ancelotti, has opted for caution regarding Neymar's return. The player has only recently resumed light training after a long period of inactivity. His last official appearance was over a month ago, when he played for Santos against Coritiba. Since then, his recovery has been closely monitored, with the team unwilling to risk a premature comeback that could jeopardize his rehabilitation.
Journalist Luiza Oliveira noted that Neymar's prolonged absence from competitive play means he is not currently in optimal condition to contribute on the field. The Brazilian federation and coaching staff are reportedly prioritizing his long-term fitness over short-term gains, especially given the high stakes of the tournament. This approach led to Neymar missing the previous match and is likely to keep him out until at least the quarterfinals, should Brazil advance that far.
Neymar has not played for the national team since October 17, 2023, when he suffered a serious knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The incident resulted in a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, further complicating his path back to full fitness. Despite public and institutional pressure, Ancelotti's decision to delay Neymar's return reflects a broader strategy to avoid setbacks and maintain team stability during the group stage.
For context, Brazil's approach to managing star players' injuries has evolved in recent years, with a greater emphasis on medical advice and long-term planning. The World Cup group stage is often decisive, but the depth of Brazil's squad allows for tactical flexibility in the absence of key figures. As the tournament progresses, the team's ability to adapt without Neymar could influence both their immediate results and the player's eventual reintegration.
