Brazil’s Neymar to continue World Cup prep after MRI shows ‘progress’

Brazilian star Neymar is making “good progress” in his recovery from a right calf injury that has kept him out of action since May, the Brazilian Football Confederation reported on June 8, 2026. (AFP)

Neymar’s recent MRI revealed ‌he’s making “good progress” in his recovery from a calf injury as he ​attempts to represent Brazil in his fourth World Cup, the Brazilian Football Confederation announced on Monday.
“The exam showed good progress in his treatment, within expected parameters,” the statement read. “He ‌will continue ‌the recovery and ​physical ‌preparation process ⁠planned ​by the ⁠Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.”
Neymar, who is Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer (79) and second all-time in appearances (128), sustained a Grade 2 muscle tear in ⁠his calf in mid-May that ‌was expected ‌to sideline him ​for two ‌to three weeks.
That injury has ‌sidelined Neymar for Brazil’s two tune-up friendlies May 31 against Panama and June 6 against Egypt and ‌leaves him questionable for Brazil’s World Cup opener against Morocco ⁠on ⁠Saturday in East Rutherford, N.J.
Brazil has won the most World Cups in history (five) but has not won one — or even made a final — since 2002.
After the Group C opener against Morocco, Brazil closes out group play against Haiti ​on June 19 ​in Philadelphia and against Scotland on June 24 in Miami.