Neymar Suffers New Injury Setback Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Brazilian star Neymar da Silva has suffered a new injury setback ahead of the 2026 World Cup after being ruled out of Santos’ match against Sant Lorenço because of a calf problem. The 34-year-old forward was unavailable for the fixture, raising fresh concern over his fitness in the buildup to Brazil’s campaign. Santos said the injury was not as serious as it first appeared. Club doctor Rodrigo Zogaib said Neymar is expected to be ready for Brazil’s first national team training session on 27 May. There is also a possibility that the forward could return to action on Tuesday against Deportivo Cuenca. The club did not specify whether that match would mark his full competitive comeback. Neymar last played for the Brazil national team in October 2023, when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in that match. The latest setback adds to uncertainty over his availability as the World Cup approaches.