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Ancelotti Names Neymar, Calf Edema Clouds World Cup Spot

5/28/2026

Summary

Neymar Injury Doubt

Coach Carlo Ancelotti named forward Neymar in Brazil’s 26-man 2026 World Cup squad, but right-calf edema after training makes his participation uncertain.
Since his October 2023 ACL tear, forward Neymar suffered the edema, missed Santos matches, and said the injury is under control and will not affect his World Cup hopes.
Brazil’s next fixtures are Panama (May 31), Egypt (June 6), Morocco (June 13), Haiti (June 19) and Scotland (June 24).

Summary

Brazil Withholds Details

The Brazilian federation will not release further details until the medical team completes its assessments, citing confidentiality.
Danilo missed Brazil’s first closed-door training session, joining Neymar in sitting out the practice.
Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Gabriel Martinelli will miss the Panama friendly because they are slated for Saturday’s Champions League final in Budapest.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti said squad selection will be based strictly on fitness and form, not on Neymar’s reputation.

Summary

Neymar Confirms No.10

Vinicius Junior confirmed Neymar will wear Brazil’s No. 10 shirt at 2026 World Cup, the first to do so in four tournaments.
The No. 10 ties Neymar to Pelé, Zico, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Kaká in his CazeTV interview.
He entered 2026 with six goals and four assists in 15 games before a calf problem.
Vinicius said Neymar called him after being left out of earlier squads, showing frustration yet trusting Carlo Ancelotti.

History

Historical Context

Brazil captured its fourth FIFA World Cup on July 17 1994 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, ending a 24-year title drought. Led by coach Carlos Alberto Parreira and captain Dunga, the team defeated Italy on penalties after a goalless final, marking the United States’ first World Cup host role and the tournament’s record 3.6 million total attendance.

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Neymar Injury Doubt

Coach Carlo Ancelotti named forward Neymar in Brazil’s 26-man 2026 World Cup squad, but right-calf edema after training makes his participation uncertain.
Since his October 2023 ACL tear, forward Neymar suffered the edema, missed Santos matches, and said the injury is under control and will not affect his World Cup hopes.
Brazil’s next fixtures are Panama (May 31), Egypt (June 6), Morocco (June 13), Haiti (June 19) and Scotland (June 24).

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