Rodrygo’s injury during Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Getafe was terrible news for Brazil, but there could be a silver lining for Neymar.
The 25-year-old tore the meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and will be out indefinitely in heart-breaking news.
Despite not being at his best for Madrid under Xabi Alonso or Alvaro Arbeloa, Rodrygo had been at that level for his country.
Since the start of the current World Cup cycle he’s Brazil’s top scorer with 10 goals and had even inherited Pele’s legendary No.10 from Neymar.
Now he won’t be in the Americas for the 2026 World Cup, but who will be is the cause of much intrigue.
Brazil’s leading outlet Globo report that Neymar is under consideration for the role despite not having been called up since 2023.
Carlo Ancelotti has regularly talked about Neymar’s condition, saying he needs to be 100% free from injury and at his highest level.
Such comments made most assume Neymar wouldn’t be returning, but Globo say the Brazil staff are now closely monitoring his progress.
Neymar helped Santos stay in the Brasileiro last season before taking months out with a knee injury, returning on February 15th and he’s since scored two goals and recorded an assist in three matches.
He will have two more games to show off before Ancelotti names his squad for March friendlies on the 16th, and despite plenty of set backs, Neymar may now have his hopes up.
Another option for replacing Rodrygo on the left wing could be a return for Antony, who has been in fine form for Real Betis.
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