Neymar’s chances for the World Cup have improved, with Brazil announcing that he is making “good progress” in his recovery from a calf injury.
The all-time leading scorer for Brazil was initially expected to be out for two to three weeks after scans revealed a grade two muscle tear last month.
After undergoing additional scans on Monday, the Brazilian Football Confederation issued a statement saying, “The exam indicated good progress in his treatment, staying within expected parameters.”
“He will continue with the recovery and physical conditioning plan established by the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.”
Neymar has missed Brazil’s two recent warm-up matches: last month’s 6-2 triumph over Panama and the 2-1 win against Egypt. He is now racing against time to be fit for their tournament opener against Morocco on June 13.
The 34-year-old, who returned to his childhood club Santos in early 2025, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.
Last October, he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee while playing for Brazil against Uruguay, and his time at Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League was marred by injuries, as were his appearances for Santos in 2026.
Neymar has found the net 79 times in 128 appearances for Brazil and hopes to compete in his fourth World Cup, having already played in the tournaments of 2014, 2018, and 2022.
Following their match against Morocco, Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil team will face Scotland and Haiti in their group stage matches.
This report includes information from PA.