BREAKING: Neymar returns to Brazil team training ahead of Haiti FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
(Courtesy : Getty)
The Selecao forward missed Brazil’s World Cup opener with a grade two calf strain.
Neymar’s chances of making his national team return in the FIFA World Cup 2026 took a huge step forward as the injured veteran returned to full team training for Brazil on Wednesday. This was the first time that he had trained with his teammates during the ongoing tournament in North America.
Carlo Ancelotti raised a few eyebrows by including the injury-prone forward in his 26-player squad. The discontent further increased when Neymar was ruled out of the first match against Morocco after being diagnosed with a grade two calf strain. Even though he was present on the bench, the talismanic striker could do nothing as his teammates were held to a 1-1 draw by the Atlas Lions.
Media reports said that he underwent fresh tests on his injured leg, and that the medical and coaching staff were not rushing his return until he was adjudged to be pain-free. This put his involvement in Brazil’s entire group-stage campaign in doubt.
Also Read: Neymar to miss entire group stage of FIFA World Cup 2026 for Brazil – Report
Neymar returns to training
Luckily for the Selecao fans, the player’s rehabilitation seems to be going according to schedule. After completing individual fitness drills without the ball on Tuesday, the Santos striker returned to full training with the rest of the team.
The number 10 seemed to be in good spirits, even asking the reporters present, “Were you missing me?”
His teammates also appeared to welcome his return, making him run through a gauntlet before the training session began.
However, despite the jovial mood in the Brazil camp, it seems unlikely that Neymar will be declared fit enough to play a part in the Selecao’s next match against Haiti. The Group C match is scheduled for June 20 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Media reports suggest that the South American giants will not field their injured star against Haiti or Scotland, instead involving him from the Round of 32 onwards.
Why did Neymar miss Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener?
He was sidelined with a grade two calf strain, watching from the bench as Brazil drew 1‑1 with Morocco.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.