Neymar's World Cup in Doubt as Calf Injury Threatens Brazil's Opener Against Morocco

Brazil's preparations for the 2026 World Cup have been disrupted by fresh concern over **Neymar**, whose ongoing calf problem has cast doubt over his participation in the Seleção's opening fixture.

The Santos forward has been managing a **right calf issue** since **May 17**. On May 28, Brazil's national team doctor confirmed Neymar would be sidelined for up to three weeks, a timeline that runs perilously close to Brazil's first match against **Morocco on June 13**. Even an optimistic recovery would leave him short of match sharpness.

Injuries have repeatedly interrupted Neymar's late-career rhythm, and his fitness has been a recurring storyline throughout Brazil's build-up. Manager Carlo Ancelotti must weigh the symbolic and creative value of his talisman against the risk of rushing a player back before he is fully fit at a tournament where Brazil carry heavy expectations.

Brazil have squad depth to cover his absence, but few players offer Neymar's match-winning unpredictability. How Ancelotti manages his recovery in the coming days could shape the Seleção's approach to the group stage and beyond.