2026 World Cup: devastating news for Neymar and Brazil

Bad news for Brazilian fans. Still in recovery, Neymar is not expected to feature in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, and his return could be delayed even longer than initially anticipated.

Concern is mounting around Neymar and his potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup. In fact, the Brazilian superstar, who remains in rehabilitation, is unlikely to be available for the group phase of the tournament.

Read also: 2026 World Cup: the team of the first matchday revealed!

According to information from Lance!, the Seleção’s number 10 could make his comeback only from the round of 16 onwards. However, the Brazilian staff are determined to take no chances with their playmaker, opting for the utmost caution in managing his return.

As a result, an even later return cannot be ruled out. Brazil might have to wait until the round of 16—or even the quarter-finals—before seeing Neymar back on the pitch, provided, of course, that the Seleção continue their run at the 2026 World Cup.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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