Overview
- Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed Thursday that an MRI at Granja Comary diagnosed Neymar with a grade‑2 calf muscle injury and set an expected layoff of two to three weeks.
- The injury ruled Neymar out of Brazil’s two pre‑tournament friendlies against Panama and Egypt and makes him unlikely to be fit for the June 13 opener against Morocco at MetLife Stadium.
- FIFA allows federations to replace injured players up to 24 hours before their first match, creating a practical deadline for Brazil to decide on Neymar’s place in the 26‑man squad.
- Santos initially gave a more optimistic clearance but Brazil’s scans produced a more cautious assessment, prompting private‑clinic testing and tighter oversight by CBF and Ancelotti’s medical staff.
- If Brazil opts to replace or limit Neymar, likely short‑term alternatives being considered include Joao Pedro, Richarlison and Gabriel Jesus while Ancelotti’s team manages a tailored rehab plan to preserve tournament options.