Neymar file photo© AFP
Brazil’s star Neymar was excluded on Friday during the world’s world Cup qualifications in 2026 against Colombia and Argentina after a thigh injury developed his recall to the national team. Neymar spent almost a year and a half from the Brazil team due to injuries, but had seemed to be rejuvenated since his return to Santos in February. But in the past two weeks, he has been prey to injury to the left thigh. In an Instagram story, the attacker expressed his disappointment to miss the games. “The return seemed so close, but unfortunately, I will not be able to wear the most important jersey in the world at the moment,” he wrote.
“We had long conversations and everyone knows my desire to come back, but we have agreed that it is better not to take risks and prepare for the best as possible to completely eradicate the injury,” he added.
With Brazil in fifth place in the qualifications of the South American World Cup, the Dorival Junior coach recalled the top scorer in Brazil with 79 goals to the team he represented for the last time in October 2023.
The Real Madrid Endrick striker will take his place.
Brazil plays Colombia in Brasilia on March 20 and will face the Rivaux Amers and the title champions of Argentina in Buenos Aires five days later.
Neymar, 33, scored for the first time in more than 14 months two weeks ago, opening his account for Santos since his return to his childhood club.
(This story has not been published by NDTV staff and is automatically generated from a unionized flow.)
Subjects mentioned in this article
(Tagstotranslate) Neymar da Silva Santos Junior (T) Brazil (T) Football NDTV Sports
