Neymar suffers fresh injury scare ahead of 2026 World Cup

Brazilian star Neymar has suffered another injury setback ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Brazil forward sustaining a problem in his right calf muscle just weeks before the tournament begins.

Santos FC confirmed in an official statement that Neymar will miss the club’s upcoming matches after sustaining a calf injury in his right leg. The 34-year-old forward is scheduled to join Brazil’s World Cup training camp on May 27.

According to Brazilian media reports, scans revealed a minor 2-millimeter injury in Neymar’s right calf muscle during his time with Santos. As a result, he is expected to miss two important fixtures — against San Lorenzo in the South American Cup and Grêmio FBPA in Brazil’s Serie A.

Despite the setback, Santos medical chief Rodrigo Zogaib insisted the injury is not considered serious. He expressed optimism that Neymar will fully recover within the next week and remain on track to join Brazil national football team ahead of the World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is set to begin next month. Before the tournament, Brazil will play two warm-up matches — against Panama national football team on May 31 at the iconic Maracanã Stadium and later against Egypt national football team. However, Neymar’s availability for those friendlies remains uncertain.

Brazil will open their World Cup campaign in Group D against Morocco national football team. The group also includes Haiti national football team and Scotland national football team.