Just as Carlo Ancelotti prepares to announce Brazil’s squad for the final rounds of 2026 World Cup qualifying, Neymar’s hopes of a national team comeback have been thrown into uncertainty. The Santos star suffered a thigh edema during training on Thursday, August 21, after reportedly feeling discomfort.<\/p>
Medical tests confirmed the injury and Santos immediately informed the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar has already begun treatment with the club’s medical staff, but his availability for Brazil’s upcoming fixtures remains doubtful. The 33-year-old forward will undergo further assessments over the coming week and is expected to miss training sessions in the immediate future. <\/p>
Santos suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss against Bahia on Sunday. The defeat leaves Santos on just 21 points from 15 matches, now sitting perilously in 15th place and only narrowly clear of the relegation zone.<\/p>
While the plan is for Neymar to return on August 31 when Santos host Fluminense in the Brasileirao, much depends on his recovery. His absence would mean yet another delay in his long-awaited return to the Seleção, having last featured in October 2023 during the qualifiers.<\/p>