Neymar’s Return to Brazil Delayed Again Due to Injury
It’s a story that has become all too familiar for fans of Brazilian soccer: Neymar, the dazzling forward who has been a linchpin for the national team, will not be making his much-anticipated return to the pitch for Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The news broke on Friday, March 14, 2025, when it was confirmed that Neymar has been ruled out due to a thigh injury.
For those keeping track, Neymar has been sidelined since October 2023. Back then, he suffered a devastating injury, tearing the ACL and meniscus in his left knee. It was a blow not just to Neymar but to the entire Brazilian squad, which has had to navigate the competitive waters of international soccer without their star player.
There was a glimmer of hope when Neymar was named in Brazil’s squad for the matches against Colombia and Argentina later this month. This came after he returned to fitness following a move to his boyhood club, Santos, during the January transfer window. However, fate had other plans.
In a recent match, Santos secured a 2-0 victory against Bragantino on March 2, but it came at a cost. Neymar picked up a muscular problem during the game, which has now led to his exclusion from the national squad. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed this development, adding that Neymar isn’t the only one missing out. Éderson, the goalkeeper from Manchester City, and Danilo from Flamengo are also out of the squad.
So, who will step up in their absence? Brazil has called up some fresh faces to fill the void. Endrick, the teenage forward from Real Madrid, is one of the new additions. Joining him are Lucas Perri, the goalkeeper from Lyon, and Alex Sandro from Flamengo.
Brazil’s coach, Dorival Jr., shared insights into the decision-making process. “Following the original call-up, the Brazil national team’s medical department has been updating us regarding the situation of all the players, especially Danilo from Flamengo, Neymar from Santos, and Ederson from Manchester City,” he said through a CBF statement. “After the evaluations carried out, we decided to call up Lucas Perri from Lyon, Alex Sandro from Flamengo, and Endrick from Real Madrid to replace the injured players.”
As it stands, Brazil is currently fifth in the South American World Cup qualifying table. The stakes are high, as the top six teams will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Brazil’s upcoming matches are crucial. They will host Colombia on Thursday before heading to face their rivals, Argentina, on March 25.
- Key Points:
- Neymar ruled out due to a thigh injury.
- Brazil’s squad also missing Éderson and Danilo.
- New call-ups include Endrick, Lucas Perri, and Alex Sandro.
- Brazil is fifth in the World Cup qualifying table.
- Upcoming matches against Colombia and Argentina.
For fans and followers of Brazilian soccer, the hope is that these new additions can rise to the occasion and help Brazil secure their spot in the World Cup. As for Neymar, the wait continues, and the soccer world watches with bated breath for his eventual return to the international stage.
Originally Written by: ESPN
