"Not to put all expectations": Neymar Jr’s latest injury setback sends panic through Brazil camp ahead of World Cup

Brazil’s hopes of entering the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a fully fit Neymar Jr have taken another worrying hit. Just days after Carlo Ancelotti included the veteran forward in his squad, fresh concerns emerged over the superstar’s physical condition following a new calf injury suffered at Santos.The timing could not be worse. Neymar had only recently returned to regular action after another difficult stretch with injuries, and many fans believed this World Cup could become his final major international stage. Instead, Brazil now heads into preparations with uncertainty hanging over its biggest name.Santos’ medical department confirmed the latest problem after Neymar missed the club’s Copa Sudamericana clash against San Lorenzo. Rodrigo Zogaib, head of Santos’ medical team, revealed the attacker suffered swelling in his right calf during the club’s 3-0 defeat to Coritiba."Neymar has a minor calf injury, an edema."The injury reportedly involves a 2-millimeter edema, which immediately raised concerns inside Brazil’s camp. According to reports from Brazil, Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching staff had already been monitoring Neymar closely before finalizing the World Cup squad.Still, Santos attempted to calm fears surrounding the former Barcelona and PSG star. Zogaib insisted Neymar remains on track to join Brazil’s camp later this month."But, according to our planning, his progress will allow him to be fit next week when he will join up with the national team."The 34-year-old is now expected to miss Santos’ upcoming matches against Gremio and Deportivo Cuenca as he focuses on rehabilitation ahead of Brazil’s World Cup preparations. Brazil will begin training on May 27 before facing Panama in a pre-tournament friendly on May 31.Despite the injury concerns, Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that Neymar still holds an important place inside Brazil’s dressing room. The Italian manager spoke openly after naming his squad and refused to place unrealistic pressure on the veteran playmaker."We have evaluated Neymar throughout the year. He is an important player, he will be again during this World Cup", the Italian said at a press conference."He has the same role and the same obligations as the other 25 players. He can play, not play, go out or be on the bench. He has the same responsibility as others. I want to be clear and honest. He will play if he deserves it. I think it is important not to put all expectations on a single player."Brazil enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Yet before fans can dream about trophies, all eyes remain fixed on Neymar’s recovery clock.