New Jersey: In what can only be described as a devastating blow to Brazil’s quest for a record-extending sixth world title, superstar forward Neymar Jr has been ruled out of the Seleção’s opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Morocco.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti delivered the grim news ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes Group F clash in New Jersey, admitting that the 34-year-old Santos striker could potentially sit out the entire group phase due to a persistent calf injury.
”He is working hard to be fit again as quickly as possible. We hope he can return to full training next week,” Ancelotti told reporters, though he carefully avoided giving any guarantees regarding Neymar’s availability for Brazil’s subsequent group fixtures against Haiti on June 19 and Scotland on June 24.
Neymar, who was a surprise inclusion in the squad given his fitness struggles, has not trained with the team since his call-up and was completely absent from Friday’s session. He also missed Brazil’s pre-tournament warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt. Explaining his decision to include the veteran despite the injury risk, Ancelotti—the first non-Brazilian manager to lead the side—emphasized Neymar’s off-field influence: “He can be a good example for the younger players in our squad.”Teammate Vinicius Junior expressed his admiration, stating, “He inspires me. I wish him a speedy recovery and I am looking forward to him finally being back on the pitch.”
Meanwhile, Morocco’s camp remains unfazed. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi noted they had tactical plans ready for both scenarios, though captain Achraf Hakimi admitted to some personal disappointment. “I want to play against the best players, and Neymar is among the best,” the PSG defender remarked.
Brazil must now navigate a tricky opening stretch without their primary talisman, relying on their young frontline to carry the weight of a nation’s expectations.
