Neymar will not feature for Brazil in their 2026 World Cup opener against Morocco.
The Brazil number 10 is still recovering from a calf problem, and Carlo Ancelotti has already ruled him out of the opening Group C fixture.
While his absence is clear for the Morocco match, his wider group-stage situation remains uncertain. Brazil have kept him in the squad because they still believe he can matter later in the tournament.
Why Neymar is not playing for Brazil against Morocco
Neymar is still working his way back to full fitness. He suffered a calf injury on 17 May while playing for Santos against Coritiba.
The injury was initially described by Santos as an edema, but after he joined Brazil on 27 May, it was confirmed as a grade two issue.
He has done some ball work with the squad, but has not yet trained in boots during Brazil’s preparation in the United States. That is the key detail behind the decision.
Ancelotti has said Neymar is working hard and is expected to rejoin the group next week. However, that does not make him ready for Morocco.
When Neymar could return for Brazil at the World Cup
The next question is whether Neymar could be available to face Haiti. At the moment, he is still considered a doubt for that match, with rhythm a concern after his time away from on-field activity.
Brazil are still expected to have strong attacking options without him. Their likely starting line-up includes Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.
That is why Neymar’s place in the squad should be viewed as a tournament decision, not a Morocco decision. Brazil are waiting for him to be ready, not forcing him into the first match.
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