Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti confirms Neymar will miss Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C opener against Morocco. Multiple reports say the forward is ruled out because of a calf injury, described as a grade-two calf problem in at least one account. Ancelotti indicates Neymar is recovering and that the injury setback is not expected to be resolved in time for the opener, with Brazil set to play Morocco in mid-June. Ancelotti also says Neymar could return to full training next week, leaving open the possibility that he might be available for later matches in the group stage.
Some reporting adds uncertainty around his availability beyond the opener: one outlet cites concerns that Neymar may also miss the team’s next fixture against Haiti due to limited match sharpness, though this is not presented as confirmed. Other sources focus on the fact that, despite the injury, Neymar was included in Brazil’s 26-man squad and Ancelotti does not indicate a replacement plan. Overall, the coverage agrees the immediate issue is Neymar’s calf recovery ahead of the Morocco match, with a possible return discussed for later group games.
