World Cup 2026: Injured Neymar to miss Morocco opener, Carlo Ancelotti confirms

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Neymar will miss Brazil The opening game of the World Cup against Morocco on Saturday.

The 34-year-old is battling a calf injury and is yet to return to full training.

Manager Ancelotti said the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward would begin training with the squad next week, with his availability for Brazil’s second match against Haiti on June 20 – doubtful.

Brazil will conclude their group campaign against Scotland on June 24.

Ancelotti said: “Neymar is working hard to recover as soon as possible.

“The hope is that he will recover and join the team next week. When we call Neymar, we call him for his technical quality, which is undeniable, for his experience and also for the example he can set for the young players in this group.”

Neymar has not played for the Selecao since 2023 amid his injury struggles but was selected for the World Cup ahead of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro and Tottenham forward Richarlison.

He scored 79 goals in 128 caps and is Brazil’s record goalscorer, surpassing Pele’s total of 77 goals.

The Santos forward could play in a fourth World Cup, representing Brazil in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.