Neymar Out for Brazil's World Cup 2026 Opener Against Morocco

Brazil's highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign will begin without their talismanic forward, Neymar, as confirmed by national team coach Carlo Ancelotti. The 34-year-old, who has been sidelined with a calf injury, is not expected to feature in Saturday's opening group stage fixture against Morocco. This news comes as a significant blow to the Seleção as they prepare to compete in the expanded 48-team tournament hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Neymar has yet to rejoin full squad training and is reportedly slated to return to group sessions sometime next week. This timeline casts doubt on his availability for Brazil's second group stage match against Haiti on June 20. The five-time World Cup champions will then conclude their initial round robin play against Scotland on June 24, hoping to have their record goalscorer back in contention.

Ancelotti emphasized the importance of Neymar, not just for his undeniable skill, but also for his invaluable experience and the leadership he provides to younger players within the squad. Despite a prolonged absence from international duty since 2023 due to various injury concerns, Neymar's inclusion in the World Cup roster ahead of other notable forwards like Joao Pedro and Richarlison underscored his standing. The former Barcelona and PSG star holds the distinction of being Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, surpassing the legendary Pelé. This tournament could mark his fourth World Cup appearance, having previously played in 2014, 2018, and 2022.