Brazil’s World Cup campaign did not get off to the start Carlo Ancelotti would have hoped for.
The 1-1 draw with Morocco raised questions, with Brazil looking far from the side their talent suggests they should be. Vinicius Junior grabbed the equaliser, but the team struggled for cohesion, control and attacking sharpness against an organised Morocco.
Neymar’s absence was always going to be a talking point, and the performance only brought his name back into focus.
Many still see him as the one player capable of unlocking Brazil’s full attacking potential, and with his return to training now on the horizon, Ancelotti could soon face a big decision.
Neymar set to rejoin Brazil training ahead of Haiti fixture
According to Brazilian outlet O Globo, Neymar is scheduled to return to training with the squad on Monday.
The 34-year-old missed the opener due to a calf injury and has not trained with the team since linking up before the pre-tournament friendlies.
While he was not part of the matchday squad against Morocco, he was still a vocal presence on the bench, offering guidance and encouragement during a nervy contest.
Neymar will have been out for about a month by the game against Haiti on Friday, 19 June, in Philadelphia. Therefore, a starting role still seems unlikely.
A more realistic scenario is a return from the bench, provided he completes training as planned and shows good progress during the week.
Even in a limited role, Neymar’s presence could make a difference. Brazil lacked creativity against Morocco, and Ancelotti may well look to him for a spark, even if he is not quite ready for a full 90 minutes.
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