Italian Carlo Ancelotti, coach of the Brazilian national team, stated that Neymar's recovery from a calf injury is progressing satisfactorily, making him a candidate to participate in the team's opening match in the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar was called up to the Brazilian national team this month, even though he was not part of Ancelotti's plans during the year the Italian coach was in charge of the "Seleção" team.
The Santos striker, Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals in 128 games, was ruled out of friendlies against Panama and Egypt by the Brazilian Football Confederation due to a calf injury last Thursday, in a decision that has sparked controversy over the Brazilian star's readiness for the 2026 World Cup.
In this regard, Ancelotti told reporters on Sunday, ahead of Brazil's friendly against Panama, "Before announcing the squad, we received a report from Santos stating that the player had a minor problem, some swelling. We left Santos to deal with it until May 27."
The Italian coach added: "Neymar was called up to the national team because, from the point of view of the coaching staff, he had to be called up. After May 27, the Brazilian Federation took responsibility for Neymar's situation and that's what we did. We are managing Neymar's recovery process. We believe he will recover as soon as possible."
He continued, "He is working well and in good spirits. We believe he will be ready for the first World Cup match, or the second at the latest. Therefore, we have absolutely no intention of replacing any player."
Brazil, who are seeking to win their sixth World Cup title to extend their record, will face Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in Group C of the tournament to be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
Brazil will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign on June 14, when they face Morocco in an important opening match.
