Brazil will launch its 2026 World Cup without NeymarSuffering from a calf injury, the Santos striker will not be available for the first match of the Seleção against Morocco, scheduled for Saturday night/Sunday morning at midnight French time. Aged 34, Neymar He hasn't played since May 17th. He hasn't yet resumed team training and remains in the recovery phase. Carlo Ancelotti confirmed his absence in a press conference, while assuring everyone that the player was working to return quickly.
Ancelotti hopes to have him back next week
The Brazilian coach indicated that Neymar was continuing his rehabilitation and that the staff hoped to see him rejoin the group in the coming days. "He is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible. We hope he will be able to rejoin the group next week."Carlo Ancelotti explained. The Italian manager also defended his decision to recall Neymar despite his physical condition. For him, the striker remains a key player, both for his technical skills, his experience, and his influence on younger players.
Brazil wants to start strong
Without a World Cup title since 2002, Brazil enters this tournament under pressure to make a strong start. The match against Morocco must allow the Seleção to regain confidence from the outset and gain an early advantage in a Group C considered to be a tough one. Neymar's absence has altered Brazil's attacking plans, but Ancelotti insists his team is ready. The coach wants to see his squad rise to the occasion right from the first match.
A "fear" assumed before Morocco
When asked about the pressure and the Moroccan opponent, Carlo Ancelotti admitted to feeling some apprehension before this first match. He described this apprehension as normal and even useful. "Fear is essential to life."He explained that this approach allows for continued vigilance and better preparation. He added that Brazil needed to be concerned at the right time, without losing confidence.
Morocco taken very seriously
Ancelotti was full of praise for the Atlas Lions. The Brazilian coach believes Morocco is among the best African teams and that they will need to play a complete match to win. He particularly emphasized the collective quality of the Moroccans, their preparation, and their danger from set pieces. For Brazil, the objective is clear: avoid a false start and make a strong statement right from the beginning of the competition.
