Neymar Returns to Brazil Team Training Ahead of World Cup

Neymar returned to partial team training with Brazil in Morristown, New Jersey, on Wednesday, according to SID. The 34-year-old forward is recovering from a right calf injury sustained in mid-May and remains unlikely to play in Saturday’s match against Haiti in Philadelphia, according to Brazilian media.

Teammates welcomed the record scorer on the pitch with a line of players who laughed and patted him on the head and back. Neymar had previously conducted individual training on Tuesday and continued to complete portions of Wednesday’s session alone before joining a team meeting.

Will Neymar play against Haiti?

An appearance in the second World Cup group match against Haiti this Saturday is unlikely, according to reports from Brazilian media. Neymar remained on the bench during Brazil’s opening 1-1 draw against Morocco.

The forward has not played a match since his calf injury in mid-May. Brazil is scheduled to face Scotland in Miami on June 25 to conclude the group stage.

How is Neymar’s recovery progressing?

Neymar is gradually reintegrating into team activities after weeks of absence due to a right calf injury. Defender Douglas Santos stated on Tuesday that the squad is “praying that he becomes 100 percent fit,” adding that Neymar “can help us very much” at full health.

Despite the return to the grass, his overall match fitness remains a concern. Neymar has not appeared in an international match since October 18, 2023.

Did You Know? Brazil is a five-time World Cup champion, having won the title in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the extended gap since Neymar’s last international cap in October 2023 creates a significant risk regarding his match rhythm. While his presence in training boosts morale, the transition from individual drills to a high-stakes World Cup environment often reveals fitness gaps that cannot be solved in a few training sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When was Neymar’s last international match? According to the source, he has not played for the national team since October 18, 2023.
• What is Brazil’s current FIFA world ranking? As of June 2026, Brazil holds the 6th place in the FIFA World Rankings.
• Who holds the Brazilian record for World Cup goals? Ronaldo holds the record with 15 goals.

Will Neymar’s return to training be enough to impact Brazil’s group stage results?