Ancelotti Optimistic About Neymar

Before Brazil announced their World Cup squad, all discussions revolved around Neymar. When head coach Carlo Ancelotti announced Neymar's name in the World Cup squad on May 18, Neymar's supporters erupted in joy.

But the happiness for Brazilian fans did not last long. Neymar suffered another injury while playing a league match for Santos. Although Santos authorities said the injury was not serious, Brazil's medical team reported that the star had suffered a second-grade injury to his calf muscle. As a result, he will not play in two preparatory matches before the World Cup and may miss the group stage opener against Morocco.

However, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is optimistic that Neymar will recover and be able to play in the 2026 World Cup. The coach claims the 34-year-old forward is making excellent progress in his personal training. He could return to full team training next week after a medical scan on Monday.

Regarding Neymar's recovery plan, Ancelotti said, "I think his situation is now much clearer. He is doing great work on an individual level. He will have an MRI at the end of this week, and if everything is fine, he can join team training next week."

Before Brazil's final preparatory match against Egypt this Saturday, Ancelotti provided an update on the team's latest fitness situation. Alongside the positive news about Neymar came a disappointing update. Due to physical fatigue following the recent Champions League final, center-back Gabriel Magalhães will not play in the match against Egypt.

The coach also said that Douglas Santos will start at left-back, and Wevertown will get a chance in goal during the second half. In this preparatory match against Egypt, Brazil will move away from their traditional attacking plans and test different strategies.