Neymar Cleared for Return to Brazil Squad Following Injury Recovery

Brazil national team head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar is fit and available for selection ahead of the team’s final group stage match against Scotland. The forward, who has been sidelined due to a calf injury, has completed his rehabilitation and returned to full training. Brazil is scheduled to face Scotland in Miami on Thursday at 00:00 local time.

Is Neymar expected to start against Scotland?

While Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar is physically capable of playing, he stopped short of guaranteeing a starting position. “He is usable. He has trained very well. He is fit and ready to play,” Ancelotti stated during his pre-match press conference. The coach noted that the 34-year-old is capable of playing either a single half or the full 90 minutes, depending on tactical requirements.

Who will replace the injured Raphinha?

Brazil faces a forced change in the attacking lineup following a muscle injury to Raphinha’s right thigh. Ancelotti indicated that 19-year-old Rayan, who currently plays for AFC Bournemouth, is the primary candidate to fill the void. Rayan previously replaced Raphinha during the second half of the match against Haiti and is expected to maintain his position in the starting XI to provide width and pace on the wing.

Context of Brazil’s tournament performance

Neymar missed Brazil’s opening two fixtures of the tournament, which resulted in a 1-1 draw against Morocco and a 3-0 victory over Haiti. The decision to include the veteran forward in the tournament roster had sparked debate among analysts due to his recent history of recurring injuries. Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time record goalscorer, having netted 79 goals in 128 international appearances.

Key Match Facts

• Opponent: Scotland
• Venue: Miami, Florida
• Kick-off: Thursday, 00:00 (Magenta TV)
• Brazil Status: Unbeaten in group play (1 win, 1 draw)

The significance of Neymar’s return

Neymar’s return to international competition follows his return to club football with Santos in Brazil, a move finalized in January 2025. His career has been defined by high-profile transfers, most notably his record-breaking €222 million move from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. As Brazil looks to secure a top finish in their group, the presence of their most experienced playmaker provides a significant boost to their offensive depth. While the team managed to secure four points without him, his ability to break down defensive blocks remains a critical component of Ancelotti’s tactical setup.