Carlo Ancelotti has given the latest news on Neymar’s recovery from injury.
Brazil’s all-time top scorer was called up to the squad for the World Cup, returning after not playing since October 2023.
However, on arrival it emerged that Santos hadn’t fully diagnoses his hamstring injury, and he wouldn’t make the start of the tournament.
Neymar missed the first two games and finally came back against Scotland, but for just 14 minutes.
He then spent the next match, a 2-1 win over Japan, on the bench.
With Lucas Paqueta’s World Cup over and Raphinha out, Neymar could be used against Norway in the last 16.
And Ancelotti admitted he’s getting frustrated.
Neymar injury update
“He’s not happy, but he’s behaving very well,” he said.
“He’s training very well. Neymar is very respectful, kind, and appreciated by his teammates.
“He has the experience to manage playing time and the pace.
“When I see that the team needs him, I’ll bring him on.”
Before his Scotland minutes, Neymar hadn’t played since May 17th for Santos.
He was then a surprise World Cup call up, with Ancelotti showing no previous signs of wanting to include him.
However, upon his return things took a turn when his injury was worse than feared.
Fears of serious Neymar injury addressed
The Brazilian football federation were forced to speak out.
A CBF press release read: “The athlete Neymar underwent an MRI scan this Monday.
“The exam showed good progress in his treatment, within the expected parameters.
“He will continue the recovery and physical preparation process planned by the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.”
Ancelotti had earlier given his own update on Neymar.
“I think it’s quite clear,” he said. “He’s doing a great job individually.
“I believe he’ll have an MRI tomorrow and if everything is okay, he’ll be able to train with the group next week.”
There were even rumours about Neymar being replaced before the tournament started, and Ancelotti was asked about them.
Ancelotti speaks Neymar
“The selected players are here, and I will not alter my plans,” he said. “These 26 players will play in the World Cup.
“Neymar will be back for the first match against Morocco, or possibly for the following one.”
Ancelotti was then asked if he would’ve called up Neymar had he known the calf injury was worse than Santos claimed, and had a classic response.
“As they say in Italy, if my grandfather had wheels, he would be a car.”
The questions even dominated Casemiro’s pre-tournament press conference.
“It’s actually good that the doctor came here to put an end to all these questions about him,” the former Manchester United man began.
“You should ask Neymar or even the manager that question.”
He then shut down another question, saying: “Once again, we come here and we have to talk about Neymar, Neymar, Neymar…
“I think Neymar is just another player in the squad, an important player among the 26.”
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