Neymar take to the field in the World Cup, Says coach
Published : 11:56, 20 June 2026
Brazil star Neymar is edging closer to a return from injury, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti indicating that the forward could feature in Brazil’s final group-stage match against Scotland.
Speaking after Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti, Ancelotti said Neymar is expected to train individually on Saturday before rejoining full team training on Monday. If his recovery continues as planned, he may be available for selection against Scotland.
The 34-year-old has been sidelined for nearly a month after suffering a calf injury in his right leg while playing for Santos against Coritiba in the Brazilian league. Since then, he has been undergoing an intensive rehabilitation program.
As a result of the injury, Neymar missed Brazil’s opening World Cup matches against Morocco and Haiti. Rather than traveling with the squad, he remained at the team’s training base in New Jersey to focus on recovery.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) recently released images showing Neymar’s rehabilitation work. He has been taking part in fitness drills, ball exercises, and specialized gym sessions under the supervision of fitness coaches Cristiano Nunes and Mino Fulco.
Brazil’s coaching staff, however, are unwilling to take any risks with the star forward. Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar will only return when he is fully fit, which is why he was not involved in the team’s first two matches of the tournament.
Brazil currently sit at the top of Group C with four points. A draw against Scotland in their final group match would likely be enough to secure progression to the knockout stage. If Neymar returns for that game, it will mark the end of a long wait for Brazilian fans eager to see their number ten back in action.





