Brazil forward Neymar is facing an increasingly uncertain future at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with new medical examinations on Monday casting a “very dark outlook” on his prospects for the remainder of the tournament. The 34-year-old, currently with the Brazil national team in New Jersey, is battling a Grade II right calf injury that has kept him sidelined since before the competition began.

Continued absence from Brazil training

Neymar’s calf injury, sustained on May 17 during a Brasileirão match, occurred just one day before manager Carlo Ancelotti announced Brazil’s final 26-player squad for the World Cup. Despite the ailment, Ancelotti opted to include the veteran attacker, hoping for his recovery during the group stage. However, Neymar has yet to play a single minute or participate in a collective training session under Ancelotti’s command since the injury.

His recovery process has seen him working out in the gym, but he has not rejoined the main group. This continued absence meant he missed pre-tournament friendlies against Panama and Egypt, as well as Brazil’s Group C debut against Morocco at MetLife Stadium. The opening match ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw for Brazil, with Neymar watching from the bench.

Ancelotti had publicly expressed an expectation for Neymar to reintegrate into group activities this week. However, his non-participation in Monday’s practice significantly complicates his chances of featuring in Brazil’s second group stage match, scheduled for Friday against Haiti in Philadelphia, according to MARCA.

Read also: The pink boot phenomenon at the World Cup

A history of setbacks and an uncertain future

Neymar’s current calf issue is the latest in a series of significant physical setbacks. He has not played for the senior national team since October 17, 2023, when he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his left knee. That severe injury occurred during a South American World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in Montevideo, sidelining him for an extended period.

The repeated injuries, coupled with his age, raise questions about his ability to return to peak form and contribute to Brazil’s World Cup campaign. As the team navigates the group stage without one of its most prominent stars, the focus remains on Neymar’s recovery, though the path back to the pitch appears increasingly challenging.

Read also: Tunisia sack coach Sabri Lamouchi after World Cup opening defeat to Sweden