MORRISTOWN, New Jersey — Neymar’s long-awaited return to the World Cup remains uncertain after the Brazil star underwent fresh medical tests on his injured right calf on Monday.The 34-year-old forward did not join Brazil’s training session and instead visited a clinic for further evaluation, raising new doubts about his availability for the five-time champions’ second Group C match against Haiti on Friday.Brazil’s football federation did not immediately release the results of the tests.Neymar has been sidelined since suffering a calf injury while playing for Santos on May 17 and has yet to take part in a full training session since Brazil began preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026.Brazilian media reports suggested the team’s medical staff is targeting a return for Neymar during the knockout stages rather than risking him too early in the tournament.The injury has become a major talking point following Brazil’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in its opening match.Brazil struggled to create chances for long periods against the Atlas Lions, prompting renewed calls for Neymar’s creativity and experience in Carlo Ancelotti’s side.The veteran forward remains one of the biggest names at the tournament despite missing the opener. He was seen on the sidelines before the Morocco match greeting celebrities including rapper Travis Scott and NFL legend Tom Brady.Neymar’s selection for the World Cup had already sparked debate across Brazil, with some questioning whether the veteran deserved a place in the squad, while others argued his experience could prove decisive in the latter stages of the tournament.Brazil will hope for positive news before facing Haiti, with qualification from Group C potentially at stake after the opening-round draw.MORRISTOWN, New Jersey — Neymar’s long-awaited return to the World Cup remains uncertain after the Brazil star underwent fresh medical tests on his injured right calf on Monday.The 34-year-old forward did not join Brazil’s training session and instead visited a clinic for further evaluation, raising new doubts about his availability for the five-time champions’ second Group C match against Haiti on Friday.Brazil’s football federation did not immediately release the results of the tests.Neymar has been sidelined since suffering a calf injury while playing for Santos on May 17 and has yet to take part in a full training session since Brazil began preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026.Brazilian media reports suggested the team’s medical staff is targeting a return for Neymar during the knockout stages rather than risking him too early in the tournament.The injury has become a major talking point following Brazil’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in its opening match.Brazil struggled to create chances for long periods against the Atlas Lions, prompting renewed calls for Neymar’s creativity and experience in Carlo Ancelotti’s side.The veteran forward remains one of the biggest names at the tournament despite missing the opener. He was seen on the sidelines before the Morocco match greeting celebrities including rapper Travis Scott and NFL legend Tom Brady.Neymar’s selection for the World Cup had already sparked debate across Brazil, with some questioning whether the veteran deserved a place in the squad, while others argued his experience could prove decisive in the latter stages of the tournament.Brazil will hope for positive news before facing Haiti, with qualification from Group C potentially at stake after the opening-round draw.
Neymar's World Cup return remains in doubt after fresh tests
