Neymar's Fitness in Question Ahead of Brazil's World Cup 2026 Opener vs. Morocco

Despite Neymar's injury and fitness concerns, Carlo Ancelotti has decided to keep the Santos attacker in the squad. | Football News

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Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign begins on Sunday against Morocco, with all eyes on the playing XI for Neymar's name. The Santos striker made the cut for Carlo Ancelotti's squad despite a calf injury and fitness concerns.

Ancelotti has decided to keep Neymar in the squad, stating he will get his chance if he proves his fitness. However, the Brazilian is doubtful for the opener and was injured during Santos' defeat to Coritiba on May 17.

Santos have been criticized for a lack of transparency regarding Neymar's fitness, with the club stating that he should be fit to return to training by Sunday. The Brazilian national team's physiotherapy team includes professionals from Santos FC who have been working with Neymar Jr. for over 10 years.

Neymar is also Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer with 79 goals and hasn't featured in international football since suffering an ACL tear in October 2023.