For months, Neymar’s return to the Brazil national team has been one of the most talked-about topics in South American soccer. However, in a disappointing turn of events, the Santos ace will not be available after suffering a left thigh injury that has ruled him out of action.
For months, Neymar’s return to the Brazil national team has been one of the most talked-about topics in South American soccer. With Brazil struggling in the 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, sitting in fifth place, many believed that the legendary forward’s comeback could be the spark the team needed.
The excitement reached its peak when coach Dorival Junior named him in Brazil’s 23-man squad for the upcoming matches against Colombia and Argentina. However, in a disappointing turn of events, Neymar will not be available after suffering a left thigh injury that has ruled him out of action.
The official confirmation came through a video posted on the Seleção’s website, where the manager explained the decision to withdraw Neymar from the squad. This means the 33-year-old star will miss the much-anticipated showdown against Lionel Messi in Buenos Aires, a match that was set to mark his return to the Superclassic of the Americas derby.
Frustrating setback forces Brazil to make unplanned changes
Neymar’s absence is a significant blow to Brazil, who will now have to rely on Barcelona‘s in-form forward Raphinha. Luckily, there is also the Real Madrid attacking trio of Rodrygo and Vinicius to take on two of South America’s strongest teams. To fill Neymar’s spot, Dorival Junior has called up their 18-year-old Los Blancos teammate Endrick, who will now have the opportunity to play a key role in these crucial matches.
Alex Sandro, do Flamengo, Endrick, do Real Madrid, e Lucas Perri, do Lyon, foram convocados nesta sexta-feira (14) pelo treinador Dorival Jr. para a disputa dos jogos contra Colômbia e Argentina, pelas Eliminatórias para a Copa do Mundo de 2026.
Eles foram chamados para os… pic.twitter.com/gUEhRB74ZL— CBF Futebol (@CBF_Futebol) March 14, 2025
Santos captain’s unavailability is particularly frustrating because it comes at a time when he was finally regaining his form and love for soccer. After leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal earlier this year, the veteran made a sensational return to his boyhood club, where he quickly rediscovered his rhythm.
Since his Vila Belmiro comeback in February, Neymar has scored three goals and registered three assists in just seven appearances, showing glimpses of the brilliance that made him one of the most electrifying players. Unfortunately, injuries have once again disrupted his journey.
Neymar’s emotional message to fans
Despite his disappointment, the former Barcelona and PSG forward took to Instagram to express his feelings about the situation. “The return seemed so close but unfortunately I won’t be able to return to wearing the heaviest shirt in the world in this moment!”
He acknowledged that he and the Brazilian medical staff had long discussions before making the difficult decision to withdraw from the squad. “We had long conversations and everyone knows the great desire I have to return, but we came to a consensus and decided not to risk it for me to better prepare myself and be completely injury-free!”
Finally, Neymar thanked his supporters via Instagram and sent a five-word message that summed up his mindset in this challenging moment: “It’s part of the process”.
