'Bad news' Neymar, the most likely candidate for the final World Cup, collapses at the worst possible time → "Definitely out of the opening match... out for up to 3 weeks"

*This content was translated by AI.

Neymar (34, Santos), who is widely considered to be playing in what will likely be his final World Cup, has faced a massive setback just as the tournament finals are within reach. Due to injury, he is not only ruled out of the friendly match but also faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the first group stage match of the World Cup.

British media outlet 'BBC' reported on the 29th (Korean time) that "Brazilian striker Neymar will not participate in the upcoming friendly match" and added that "he may even miss the World Cup opening match."

According to the report, Neymar has been diagnosed with a calf injury that will keep him out for two to three weeks. As a result, he will be unable to play in the home friendly match against Panama on Sunday, as well as the evaluation match against Egypt scheduled for the 6th in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

Brazil, which has won the World Cup five times—the most in history—is set to face Morocco in the first group stage C match in New Jersey on the 13th. This will be followed by a second match against Haiti in Philadelphia on the 19th, and a final match against Scotland in Miami on the 24th. If the current diagnosis holds, there is no guarantee he will be able to play in the first group stage match against Morocco.

Rodrigo Lasmar, the team doctor for the Brazilian national team, announced Neymar's injury news at a press conference, stating, "Neymar has undergone all detailed examinations. MRI results confirmed a Grade 2 calf injury, not simple swelling." He added, "Therefore, it is expected to take two to three weeks for Neymar to return." A Grade 2 calf strain is a moderate injury involving partial tearing of muscle fibers, requiring rest and rehabilitation.

Recently, Neymar, who had stepped down from his prime form, made headlines by dramatically rejoining the Brazilian national team. However, immediately after putting on the Brazil jersey, he complained of pain and swelling in his right calf during his first training session and underwent detailed examinations.

Due to the aftermath of his injury absence, Neymar has not played for the Brazilian national team since the match against Uruguay in October 2023 (0-2 loss). Nevertheless, Coach Carlo Ancelotti placed his trust in Neymar's experience and class over Joao Pedro (Chelsea) and Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur), making a surprise selection for the final World Cup roster.

By joining this World Cup roster, Neymar has the opportunity to step onto the World Cup stage for the fourth time in his career, following the 2014, 2018, and 2022 tournaments. During the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil, he suffered a spinal injury in the quarterfinals against Colombia, leaving him with painful memories of being carried off on a stretcher while in tears.

Carlo Ancelotti (Italy), the coach leading Brazil to its first World Cup finals stage, is now facing deep concern.

When selecting Neymar, Coach Ancelotti expressed strong confidence, stating, "The national team has analyzed Neymar throughout the year. We have confirmed that he has shown consistency recently and is maintaining good physical condition." However, the calf injury that erupted just before the finals has brought Brazil's World Cup challenge to an abrupt halt.

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*This content was translated by AI.