Neymar’s World Cup place was already one of Brazil’s most divisive debates before preparations had properly settled under Carlo Ancelotti.
Some believe his talent and experience still make him essential, while others point to his level at Santos and repeated fitness issues as reasons to question his place.
Ancelotti still chose to count on him, but the discussion did not fade. Instead, one medical update turned his call-up into Brazil’s first controversy of the campaign.
Neymar now faces World Cup doubt after Santos and Brazil clash
Neymar is now unlikely to play Brazil’s friendlies against Panama and Egypt, and there is doubt over whether he will be ready for the World Cup opener against Morocco.
The issue comes from the gap between Santos’ version and the assessment made after Neymar reported to Brazil’s camp at Granja Comary.
Santos said the No. 10 had a calf edema, with a two-week recovery starting on 17 May after he felt pain against Coritiba.
Under that timeline, the former Barcelona superstar would complete his recovery on 31 May. The three-time Libertadores winners also said all exams had been shared with CBF’s staff before the final decision.
Brazil’s medical team then gave a tougher diagnosis. Doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed a grade two calf injury, not just edema, after new tests with the national team.
That changed the picture. Brazil now expects Neymar to need another two or three weeks, leaving him out of the friendlies and racing to face Morocco.
The coaching staff does not currently plan to cut him. But after only one day of preparation, Neymar’s call-up already looks like Ancelotti’s most delicate World Cup decision.
