Neymar’s highly anticipated return to Brazil’s national team has been postponed once again following another injury setback.
The country’s all-time leading goal scorer has been forced to withdraw from the squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Despite being included in Dorival Júnior’s 23-man squad, the Brazillian footnaller has been struggling with a left thigh injury, preventing his much-awaited comeback to the international stage.
Brazilian fans were filled with excitement upon seeing Neymar’s name on the squad list, but their enthusiasm quickly turned to disappointment as news of his withdrawal emerged.
In an official video released by the Brazilian Football Federation, head coach Dorival Júnior confirmed that Neymar, along with Danilo and Ederson, had been unable to recover in time for selection.
“After the evaluations carried out, these players—Neymar Jr., Danilo, and Ederson—are in a recovery process with their respective clubs. Therefore, they won’t be ready to represent Brazil in the upcoming FIFA qualifier matches”, Dorival Júnior stated.
The Brazillian, who had already missed Santos’ recent league match against Corinthians, attempted to warm up but was visibly in discomfort and unable to continue.
With Neymar sidelined once again, young Real Madrid sensation Endrick has been called up to replace him, while Alex Sandro and Lucas Perri will take the spots of Danilo and Ederson.
Neymar’s last official match for Brazil was in October 2023 against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier, where he suffered a severe ACL injury. Since then, he has been undergoing an extensive recovery process, with repeated setbacks delaying his return.
Now, the upcoming June qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay are being considered the next possible opportunity for Neymar to finally make his comeback.
In the meantime, Brazil will rely on Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinícius Junior, and Endrick to spearhead their attack in the crucial encounters against Copa America finalists Colombia and Argentina.
With Brazil struggling in the Conmebol standings, the team will look to its young attacking stars to step up in Neymar’s absence and deliver much-needed results.
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