Brazil announces new timeline for Neymar's return
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Just one day remains before the World Cup festivities begin. Before the on-field battles commence, the focus of discussion in the five-time world champions Brazil's camp is Neymar's injury. The Santos forward has been in rehabilitation since suffering a right calf muscle injury on May 17. After receiving the latest MRI report, Brazil's coaching staff has set a new schedule for his return to the field.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said in a release that Neymar's latest MRI report is quite positive. His injury is improving as expected by the medical board. The statement said, "Neymar Jr.'s MRI scan shows that the progress of his treatment is very satisfactory. His rehabilitation and physical conditioning process will continue according to the plan of the national team's medical staff."
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has repeatedly stated that he wants Neymar fully fit. Still, the superstar was given a place in Brazil's 26-member World Cup squad. Without Neymar, the Seleção have shown their strength in preparation matches, defeating Panama 6-2 and Egypt 2-1. However, Ancelotti knows very well how effective Neymar's experience can be in high-voltage knockout matches. Therefore, no rush is being taken regarding his injury.
ESPN Brazil and Globo Esporte reported that there was a plan to keep Neymar on the bench as a substitute for Brazil's first World Cup match against Morocco on June 13. However, after the doctors' assessment, the Brazil team management has moved away from that decision. It has been decided to keep Neymar completely off the pitch for the Morocco match. Ancelotti's current goal is to bring Neymar onto the field for the second group stage match against Haiti on June 19.
Brazil's coaching staff believes that this extra time will allow Neymar to fully recover without any risk and also get his match fitness sharpened before the knockout stages. In the coming days, Neymar will practice alone, then gradually join his teammates in main training sessions. Will Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer be able to make his potentially final World Cup memorable?
