SAO PAULO, 15 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Brazil’s star forward Neymar has been ruled out of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina after a recurring thigh injury thwarted his much-anticipated return to the national team.
After nearly a year and a half away from the Brazil squad due to injuries, Neymar had appeared revitalised since rejoining Santos in February. However, the persistent left thigh injury has kept him sidelined in recent weeks, preventing his participation in the crucial qualifiers.
In an emotional Instagram post, Neymar expressed his frustration at missing out on representing his country once again.
“The return seemed so close, but unfortunately I won’t be able to wear the most important jersey in the world for the moment,” Neymar wrote. “We had long conversations, and everyone knows my desire to return. However, we agreed that it’s best not to take any risks and to prepare as best as possible to completely eradicate the injury.”
Brazil currently sit in fifth place in the South American World Cup qualifiers, and coach Dorival Junior had hoped to have the 33-year-old forward back in the squad. Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals. His recall was seen as a significant boost for the team, having last played for Brazil in October 2023.
With Neymar unavailable, Real Madrid’s Endrick will take his place in the squad.
Brazil’s first match is against Colombia in Brasilia on 20 March, followed by a highly anticipated clash with Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, in Buenos Aires on 25 March.
Despite the setback, Neymar did make a positive impact with Santos, scoring his first goal in over 14 months two weeks ago in a match against his old club.
Context for Readers:
- Neymar has been an essential figure for Brazil, scoring a record 79 goals for the national team, overtaking Ronaldo Nazário as Brazil’s all-time top scorer.
- Endrick, at just 17 years old, has become one of Brazil’s brightest young talents, having recently joined Real Madrid.
- Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign has faced challenges, with the country aiming to secure one of the top four spots in the South American qualifiers to automatically qualify for the 2026 tournament.
- Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, are the reigning FIFA World Cup champions, having triumphed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.