Overview
- Neymar was back on the training pitch performing ball drills in New Jersey on Sunday as CBF staff stepped up his rehab from a grade‑2 right calf strain.
- Ancelotti said Neymar would train individually first, join full team sessions next, and that he will be available for the Scotland match pending those steps.
- The calf injury was diagnosed by CBF scans as a grade‑2 strain that initially carried a two‑to‑three‑week recovery window, but recent imaging and monitoring showed enough progress to accelerate on‑field work.
- Brazil sit on four points after two games so a draw or avoiding defeat against Scotland would likely secure progression, giving staff reason to manage Neymar’s minutes rather than push for a full 90.
- Neymar’s return would restore Brazil’s primary playmaker after an ACL setback in October 2023 and a strong run with Santos this year, and his presence could change tactics, squad selection and public expectations for the knockout stage.