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The news of Neymar’s injury ahead of the 2026 World Cup sparked concern among Brazil’s supporters on Monday (June 1, 2026).

However, head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that the star forward will remain an integral part of the Selecao squad for the grand tournament.

According to BolaSport.com, Neymar suffered a problem with his right calf before joining Brazil’s national team training camp.

Initially, the injury was believed to be minor, requiring only around 10 days of recovery.

But after undergoing further examination using an MRI scan upon his arrival at Brazil’s training base, Neymar’s condition turned out to be more serious than first expected.

The Santos forward was diagnosed with a grade-two calf injury, which will sideline him for two to three weeks.

Despite this setback, Carlo Ancelotti has no plans to make any changes to the squad he has prepared for the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar’s presence is still considered vital for the Brazilian national team, even though he has yet to resume full training with his teammates.

Ancelotti confirmed that Brazil will not remove Neymar from the list of 26 players selected for the 2026 World Cup.

The Italian coach believes that Neymar’s condition gives him a good chance to recover in time for the tournament.

Even if the 34-year-old forward misses the opening group stage match, he is expected to return for the following fixtures.

Ancelotti also stated that the announced squad will remain unchanged until the tournament begins.

There are no plans to replace any players due to Neymar’s current injury.

This decision demonstrates the high level of trust placed in the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star.

Chance to Play from the Group Stage

Brazil will kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 14.

If Neymar’s recovery proceeds as scheduled, he could be available for that opening match.

However, should he not fully recover in time, the coaching staff are targeting his return for the second group stage match against Haiti on June 20.

In addition to Morocco and Haiti, Brazil will also face Scotland in the group stage. All three matches will take place in the United States.

Even though he is not yet at full fitness, Neymar continues to undergo individual training sessions to maintain his physical condition during recovery.

Equaling Pele’s Legendary Record

Amid his injury news, Neymar received a major honour from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

As reported by BolaSport.com, the CBF has announced Brazil’s official squad numbers for the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar has once again been entrusted with the iconic No.10 shirt, a number long associated with Brazilian football legends.

This decision marks a historic milestone, as Neymar becomes only the second Brazilian player to wear the No.10 shirt in four different World Cup editions.

He previously wore the number in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments, and now he will do so again in 2026.

With this, Neymar equals a record previously held only by the legendary Pele.

The achievement further underlines the immense faith placed in Neymar, despite his recent battles with injuries and fitness issues.

A Long Journey Back to the Brazil National Team

Before being confirmed in the 2026 World Cup squad, Neymar’s position had been a matter of debate.

His inconsistent performances due to recurring injuries had led many to question whether he could still be relied upon by the Selecao.

Doubts grew further when his name was omitted from Brazil’s squad for the friendly matches held in March.

However, Neymar gradually proved that he still deserves his place in the national team.

He was first included in the provisional squad and eventually secured his spot in Carlo Ancelotti’s final selection.

Now, even while undergoing recovery, Neymar remains one of the key figures expected to lead Brazil’s charge at the 2026 World Cup.

Before the main tournament begins, Brazil will play two warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt as part of their final preparations in pursuit of a historic sixth world title.