Brazil will begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign without star forward Neymar after coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the veteran attacker is not yet fit to return from a calf injury. The five-time world champions are set to face Morocco in their Group F opener in New Jersey, but Neymar’s absence has emerged as a significant setback for a team aiming to reclaim football’s biggest prize.

Speaking ahead of the tournament opener, Ancelotti said Neymar continues to make progress in his recovery but remains unavailable for selection. The Brazilian star has not trained fully with the squad and has not featured in any match since receiving a surprise call-up to the World Cup squad. The coach expressed hope that Neymar could return to full training next week but stopped short of guaranteeing his availability for the remainder of the group stage.

Brazil’s concerns extend beyond the opening fixture, with group matches against Haiti and Scotland scheduled later this month. Ancelotti acknowledged that Neymar could miss all three group-stage encounters as the medical staff prioritises his recovery. The 34-year-old forward also sat out Brazil’s warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt, continuing a rehabilitation programme designed to avoid aggravating the injury.

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Despite questions surrounding his fitness, Ancelotti defended the decision to include Neymar in the squad. The Italian manager, the first foreign coach to lead Brazil’s national team, said the veteran’s leadership and experience make him a valuable presence in a relatively young group. According to the coach, Neymar’s influence extends beyond his performances on the field and can help guide players seeking success on the global stage.

Brazil winger Vinicius Junior also voiced support for his teammate, describing Neymar as a major inspiration and expressing hope that he would return later in the tournament. Brazil are chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup title and view the experienced forward as an important component of their ambitions despite his current fitness concerns.

Morocco, meanwhile, insisted Neymar’s absence would not alter their preparations for the match. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his side had prepared for scenarios both with and without the Brazilian star. Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi admitted he would have welcomed the opportunity to face one of football’s biggest names but stressed that his team remains fully focused on securing a positive result in the tournament opener.

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