Neymar Faces Fitness Concerns Ahead of Brazil Friendlies

Santos forward Neymar is battling lingering muscle fatigue, casting doubt on his availability for Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia on March 26 and 31. The situation presents a setback for the 34-year-ancient as he attempts to regain a regular spot in the national team ahead of the World Cup, scheduled to capture place in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. From June 11 to July 19.

Injury Timing Frustrates Brazil Coach

Santos announced Neymar will miss Tuesday’s Brazilian Championship match against Mirassol as a precautionary measure. However, the timing of the injury has caused frustration for Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, who had specifically travelled from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo to observe Neymar’s performance [1].

Sources within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the national team’s technical committee have indicated that Neymar’s absence from the match was met with surprise. Ancelotti had hoped to closely assess the player’s condition before announcing the squad for the upcoming friendlies on March 16.

Ancelotti’s Stance on Player Fitness

Ancelotti has consistently emphasized that he will only select players who are fully fit and capable of meeting the physical demands of the national team. Missing the match against Mirassol could jeopardize Neymar’s inclusion in the squad.

Neymar’s Return to Santos and National Team Performance

Neymar returned to his boyhood club, Santos, in January 2025, after a stint in Saudi Arabia. While he has shown glimpses of his former brilliance, he has struggled to maintain consistent form and fitness. [1] He has not played for Brazil since October 2023, when he sustained serious knee ligament injuries.

Despite his recent challenges, Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances [1].

Competition for Attacking Positions

Brazil boasts a wealth of attacking talent, including Vinicius Jr, Estevao, Raphinha, Joao Pedro, Gabriel Martinelli, Endrick, Igor Jesus, and Matheus Cunha. This competition adds further pressure on Neymar to prove his fitness and form.

Ancelotti’s Continued Monitoring

Despite Neymar’s absence from Tuesday’s match, Ancelotti will proceed with his planned visit to avoid the impression that his trip was solely focused on observing the forward. He will attend the Botafogo v Flamengo match in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, while his assistant coaches will monitor Neymar’s potential appearance in the Corinthians game.

Looking Ahead

Neymar is expected to be available for Sunday’s match against Corinthians. However, with Brazil’s final World Cup call-up scheduled for May, time is running out for the forward to secure his place in the squad.